Addiction Among College Students Kniecolle Brown Comm/156 Amy Leedy 08/24/13

The abuse of illicit drugs is affecting students on campuses causing addiction at colleges and universities all across the globe. Students attend colleges and universities all over the world, and arrive at these institutions with preconceived notions about studies, social activities, and new found freedom. Ironically, these elements, if not embraced maturely, often exacerbate underlying stressors that adversely affect students. Thus, the independence in which students find themselves, if not dealt with responsibly, can lead to addictions and other destructive behaviors, such as, late night partying, poor grades, and subsequently dropping out of school altogether. With the arrival of new students’ peer pressure to fit in can be an adequate reason for the student deciding to indulge in drugs and alcohol, as a way of acceptance into a group. There are many reasons that college students continue to drink and use drugs. Some may do it because of the pressure to fit in while gathering sociably, while others may see it as the cool thing to do. There is also the misconception that it can help them to relieve stress from school, financial responsibilities, and relationships. Whatever reason for the initial attempt, college students tend to forget the reason that they are in school and begin to take full advantage of the intellectual environment, by drinking, drugging, and eventually becoming addicted to an unforgivable lifestyle. In America 80% of