Decline in teen drug use continues, surprising experts

I wonder if the new drug of choice is actually technology. In some ways I think that the addiction to technology has some similar mellowing effects as drugs. Some research indicates that smartphone addiction is also related to low self-esteem and avoidant attachment [1] and that smartphones can become an object of attachment [2]. The replacement of drugs by technology is not surprising as it significantly strengthens technological development especially as it is already well past the point of diminishing returns for improving every day life.

1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S07475...

2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S07475...

It does replace a demand of people who want to mellow out.

The same tech completely disrupts how drug-use spreads as well. There is nobody to offer a first hit if you're hanging out online.

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Though I would caution taking tech as _the_ cause. Things like demographics and the general zeitgeist shouldn't be ignored.

Maybe the kids are really into DARE.