Problem
Substance abuse by role models
Other Names:
Drug abuse by community leadersAlcohol abuse by people of authority
Incidence:
In several instances, police in the USA have noticed an increase in the use of dangerous drugs after the death by overdose of a prominent person such as popular musician. Instead of being frightened by the potentially deadly effects of the particular drug or brand of drug that caused the person's death, users seek it out, clearly influenced by the behaviour of their role model.
A US survey (2001) of teens and preteens showed that those whose favorite actors smoke in films are more likely to take up the habit themselves. In addition, when their film favorites frequently smoked, young people were far more likely to look favorably on smoking, even if they did not smoke themselves.
Broader Problems:
Insufficient role modelsMisconduct in elected public office Narrower Problems:
Substance abuse by physiciansAlcoholic parents Related Problems:
Absence of images of social responsibility Aggravates:
Drug subcultureDrug abuse by adolescentsLeadership impaired by illnessInadequate adult role models for youth Subject(s):
Cybernetics → ModellingGovernment → Authorities
Societal Problems → Addiction, drug abuse
Society → Communities
Society → People
Related UN Sustainable Development Goals:
Problem Type:
E: Emanations of other problems Date of last update
04.10.2020 – 22:48 CEST