Which of the following is a common risk factor for substance use among adolescents?

Peer pressure is identified as a common risk factor for substance use among adolescents. During this developmental stage, individuals are heavily influenced by their peers, which can lead to experimenting with substances as a means of fitting in or being accepted within a social group. The desire to uphold a certain image or gain social approval can increase the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors, including substance use.

In contrast, academic success and participation in sports are often considered protective factors, as they can provide structure, promote self-discipline, and foster healthy social connections. Strong family bonds also serve as a protective factor by offering support, guidance, and supervision, which can help adolescents resist negative influences from their peers. Therefore, while strong family ties and positive engagement in academic and sports activities contribute to resilience against substance use, peer pressure directly correlates to an increased risk.