Which risk factor involves the absence of caregivers or parental support?

Which risk factor involves the absence of caregivers or parental support?

• A. Misperception of peer norms
• B. Loss of positive body image
• C. Loss of parents
• D. All of the above

Answer: (C)

This item tests how family structure and caregiver support relate to risk for substance use. The absence of caregivers or parental support means less supervision, guidance, and emotional backing—the kinds of protective factors that can help youths avoid risky behaviors. When parents are no longer present or able to provide support, youth may have more opportunities or fewer deterrents to turn to substances. Misperception of peer norms involves how a teen views peers’ drug use, which is a social influence factor rather than a caregiver-related one. Loss of positive body image concerns self-perception and appearance, not family support. “All of the above” would be incorrect because the other factors don’t fit the absence-of-caregiver theme.

This item tests how family structure and caregiver support relate to risk for substance use. The absence of caregivers or parental support means less supervision, guidance, and emotional backing—the kinds of protective factors that can help youths avoid risky behaviors. When parents are no longer present or able to provide support, youth may have more opportunities or fewer deterrents to turn to substances.

Misperception of peer norms involves how a teen views peers’ drug use, which is a social influence factor rather than a caregiver-related one. Loss of positive body image concerns self-perception and appearance, not family support. “All of the above” would be incorrect because the other factors don’t fit the absence-of-caregiver theme.