VICE AND DRUGS EDUCATION AND CONTROL
OTHER INFORMATION ON DRUG ABUSERS
Submitted by:
GALAO, JERIE MAE
MOLINA, MARK
PALTOG, REYNON
Submitted to:
Ma'am GRETEL JOY G. BALINGTAN
ABSTRACT
This research examines several contributing factors associated with drug abuse among
Filipino users. The study highlights the influence of parental supervision, media exposure,
commercialization of alcohol and tobacco, early experimentation with legal substances, and
societal beliefs regarding medication. Findings suggest that early exposure to alcohol and
tobacco, commonly referred to as gateway drugs, combined with reduced parental guidance
and strong media influence, increases vulnerability to substance abuse. The paper
emphasizes the importance of preventive education, responsible advertising, family
involvement, and early intervention strategies in addressing drug abuse among youth.
OTHER INFORMATION ON DRUG ABUSERS
1. Working Parents and Latch-Key Children
More than 59 percent of drug users come from families where both parents work outside the
home. This situation may result in limited supervision and emotional support. Example: A child
who regularly comes home to an empty house may seek companionship from peers, some of
whom may introduce cigarettes or alcohol as a form of social bonding.
2. Media Exposure at an Early Age
Television is often used as a substitute caregiver for young children. Early exposure to
advertisements for beer, painkillers, and OTC medications may normalize substance use.
Example: A child repeatedly seeing alcohol advertisements during sports programs may
associate drinking with success and enjoyment.
3. Decline in Breastfeeding and Maternal Bonding
Breastfeeding strengthens emotional attachment and early psychological development.
Reduced bonding opportunities may affect emotional security. Example: Limited parental
interaction may lead adolescents to seek emotional comfort from peer groups engaged in
substance use.
4. Misleading Alcohol and Cigarette Advertising
Advertisements typically show enjoyment and social acceptance but omit health risks such as
cancer, liver disease, and addiction. Example: Commercials often show groups of friends
laughing while drinking, without depicting long-term health consequences.
5. Sponsorship of Athletic Events by Tobacco Companies
Although direct advertising may be restricted, tobacco companies sponsor sporting events to
maintain brand visibility. Example: Large cigarette logos displayed in sports arenas expose
minors to brand familiarity.
6. Alcohol and Tobacco as Gateway Drugs
Research indicates that many drug users begin with alcohol or cigarettes before progressing
to illegal drugs. Example: A teenager who starts smoking cigarettes may later experiment with
marijuana or other prohibited substances.
7. Early Abuse of Legal Drugs
Approximately 70 percent of elementary students reportedly abuse legal substances such as
tobacco, alcohol, diet pills, and sleep aids. Example: Students may obtain OTC medications
from older friends and misuse them without understanding the risks.
8. The 'Pill for Every Ill' Mentality
The belief that every problem has a medicinal solution may encourage dependency rather
than healthy coping mechanisms. Example: Instead of addressing stress through counseling
or exercise, individuals may rely solely on medication.
In conclusion, these factors demonstrate the complex interaction of family structure, media
influence, commercial marketing, and social beliefs in shaping drug-related behaviors.
Effective prevention requires strong parental involvement, accurate public health messaging,
and early educational interventions.