Which statement about the role of peers in substance use is accurate?

The role of peers in substance use is crucial, as they can significantly shape an individual’s attitudes and behaviors towards substances. Peers, especially during adolescence and young adulthood, often serve as a reference point for social behavior, which includes the acceptance and use of alcohol, drugs, and other substances. Their influence can manifest as direct encouragement to use substances, participation in substance-related activities, or through the social norms they establish within a group.

Research indicates that individuals are more likely to engage in substance use when it is perceived as acceptable or when they are surrounded by peers who are using substances themselves. This influence can lead to increased experimentation, habitual use, or even addiction.

The other statements do not accurately reflect the complexity of peer influence. For instance, the notion that peers have no impact on choices overlooks the substantial evidence supporting social influence theories. While peers can indeed encourage abstinence, this is not as prominent or universally applicable as their tendency to foster substance use. Finally, the idea that peers only influence older adults is misguided, as peer pressure and the desire for acceptance are particularly potent during youth.