Pot Smoking Increases Risk for Car Crashes and Teen Depression

Posted on November 8, 2011

As efforts to legalize marijuana are increasingly successful in different regions of the United States, two new studies indicate that maybe the drug should come with a warning label.

Study Examines Roles of Friends in Teen Decisions to Take Risks

Posted on April 11, 2011

While everyone may have different levels of tolerance for risk, it is often apparent that teens are more resilient. When taking risks, teens also generally enjoy having company along.

According to a recent study, teens are five times more likely to be involved in a car accident when driving with a group as compared to driving alone. Teens are also more likely to commit a crime when among friends.

Understanding Teen Pregnancy and Substance Abuse

Posted on March 29, 2010

When teen pregnancy rates increased for the first time in a decade between 2005 and 2006, there were more changes under the headlines. Not only had teen pregnancies increased that year, but shifts in the demographics of teenage females who also struggle with substance abuse changed significantly in the years leading up to the increase.

Psychological Distress Present Before Teen Pregnancy

Posted on February 11, 2010

Physiological distress in teenage mothers and pregnant teens is a common phenomenon. What is often believed however is the distress is a result of the pregnancy. New research suggests distress was present before the pregnancy even occurred. A recent Science Daily piece examines the trend.

Teen Sexting Can Lead to Unintended Consequences

Posted on January 28, 2010

Sexting – or the sending and posting of sexually explicit or suggestive messages and photos via digital or electronic devices – is not only against the law in many jurisdictions, it can lead to devastating and long-term unintended consequences for the victims and their families.

Screening Test Can Identify Teens at More Risk of Unhealthy Behavior

Posted on November 24, 2009

It isn’t unusual for teens to be curious about their bodies and to seek to satisfy that curiosity. When alcohol or drugs are involved, however, this exploration can lead to risky behavior.