There are various perspectives on youth substance use, which has implications for how youth substance use is being addressed. Some individuals and institutions oppose any substance use among youth, while others take approaches that focus on reducing substance-related harms. The complexity of substance-related harms is not fully appreciated when we observe and measure substance use among youth and label these behaviours as good or bad.
This paper highlights some of these nuanced perspectives and suggests a path forward for the education sector. It also provides context to inform research and interventions, and support greater alignment with public health objectives.
This paper can also be viewed in web-page format here.
