Preface

Adolescence is a particularly vulnerable period of neurodevelop¬ment in which the incorrect management of emotional, social, and behavioral changes can lead to unsuccessful adulthood. During this period of life the brain is still maturing, being a moment of dynamic specialization of core brain systems, particularly the frontal structures. Earlier initiation of substance use in adolescence is associated not only with an increased risk of dependence but also with antisocial behavior and impairments of adaptive functioning, including relationship difficulties, academic failure, unemployment, and mental health issues. This book presents a comprehensive overview of multidisciplinary issues about adolescence and substance abuse, with a special focus on alcohol. Written by experts in the field, chapters discuss risk factors related to the onset and maintenance of substance abuse in adolescence, behavioral and pharmacological approaches to prevent and/or reduce the negative consequences of substance abuse, and psychological disorders associated with drug abuse.
