Addiction: Teenage Kicks - the Debate Rages on

This school briefing, from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), gives the facts about drink, drugs and alcohol addiction amongst teenagers and young people. Despite, media stories about famous people struggling with their addictions, drug use, smoking and drinking is increasing and death rates are rising. The briefing discusses the strategies used to control addiction and its effects, such as the ban on smoking in public places, greater fines for selling alcohol to under-age children and the education of young children in lifesaving skills. The briefing also looks at the complex debates over penalties for possession of drugs and explains the differing opinions on the decriminalisation of cannabis. ESRC is a part of Research Councils UK (RCUK).