Adolescent Initiation of Drug Use: Effects of Prenatal Cocaine Exposure.

The article presents a study on the relationship between prenatal cocaine exposure (PCE) and adolescent drug use. Information is also provided on the impact of PCE on behavior and mood changes in children by the age of 10. Results of interviews with adolescents concerning their use of alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco are also included, citing PCE as well as the influence of factors such as violence, childhood maltreatment, and familial factors as causing such exposure.