Risk Factors vs. Protective Factors: What Increases Risk—and What Helps Protect Youth from Substance Use

When it comes to youth substance use, one of the most important things to understand is why some young people are more vulnerable than others. Research consistently shows that substance use doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s influenced by a combination of risk factors—things that increase the likelihood of use—and protective factors—things that reduce it.

Understanding both sides of the equation empowers parents and caregivers, schools, and communities to move beyond fear-based prevention and focus on what truly makes a difference.

What Are Risk Factors?

Risk factors are conditions or influences that increase the chances a young person may experiment with or regularly use substances like alcohol, nicotine, or drugs. Having one risk factor does not mean a youth will use substances, but the more risk factors present, the higher the likelihood.

Common Risk Factors for Youth Substance Use

1. Family-Related Factors

• Lack of parental supervision or involvement

• Inconsistent or harsh discipline

• Family conflict or instability

• Parental or sibling substance use

When boundaries are unclear or when role models struggle with substance use themselves, youth may perceive use as normal or acceptable.

2. Peer Influence

• Friends who use substances

• Pressure to “fit in” or be accepted

• Social environments where substance use is normalized

Peers play a powerful role during adolescence, especially as teens seek independence from adults.

3. Individual Factors

• Low self-esteem or poor coping skills

• Impulsivity or sensation-seeking behavior

• Anxiety, depression, or untreated mental health challenges

• Academic struggles or lack of school engagement

Substances can become a way to self-medicate emotions or escape stress.

4. Community and Environmental Factors

• Easy access to substances

• Lack of positive youth activities

• Community norms that minimize risks

• High-stress or unsafe neighborhoods

When substances are visible, accessible, or socially accepted, risk increases.

What Are Protective Factors?

Protective factors are strengths, supports, or conditions that buffer youth against substance use—even when risk factors are present. These factors help young people build resilience, make healthier choices, and feel supported.

Protective factors don’t eliminate risk entirely, but they significantly lower the odds of substance use and related harm.

Key Protective Factors That Make a Difference

1. Strong Family Connections

• Warm, supportive relationships with caregivers

• Clear expectations and consistent rules

• Open communication about substances and life challenges

Youth who feel heard and valued at home are more likely to seek guidance and less likely to seek escape.

2. Positive Peer Relationships

• Friends who avoid substance use

• Peer groups that value healthy choices

• Opportunities to belong without pressure

Positive peer influence can be just as powerful as negative peer pressure.

3. Emotional and Social Skills

• Healthy coping strategies for stress

• Problem-solving and decision-making skills

• Confidence and self-efficacy

Youth who know how to manage emotions and setbacks are less likely to turn to substances as a coping mechanism.

4. School and Community Engagement

• Feeling connected to school or teachers

• Participation in sports, clubs, arts, faith-based groups, or service

• Mentors or trusted adults outside the home

Having a sense of purpose and belonging protects against risky behavior.

5. Clear Expectations and Education

• Evidence-based, age-appropriate substance use education

• Clear messaging that substance use is not expected or required

• Consistent enforcement of rules and consequences

Youth do better when expectations are clear and consistent.

Why Protective Factors Matter More Than Fear

Prevention efforts focused only on the dangers of substances often fall short. While education is important, connection, consistency, and care are far more effective long-term.

Protective factors:

• Reduce the impact of risk factors

• Support healthy development beyond substance use

• Strengthen overall well-being and resilience

The goal isn’t to control every choice—it’s to equip youth with the tools, relationships, and confidence to make good ones.

Building Protection Is a Shared Responsibility

Parents and caregivers, schools, and communities all play a role in shaping the environments young people grow up in. Small, consistent actions—listening, showing up, setting boundaries, encouraging strengths—add up.

Every positive connection matters. Every skill taught matters. And every protective factor built today helps safeguard youth tomorrow.