Which of the following is a reason young people may start using drugs or alcohol?

Young people may start using drugs or alcohol out of curiosity as they seek to explore new experiences. This motivation stems from their developmental stage, where experimentation and the desire to understand their surroundings and personal limits are common. Adolescents often feel curious about the effects of substances, which can lead them to try drugs or alcohol as a way to fulfill that need for exploration and discovery.

While enhancing academic performance, improving physical health, or avoiding extracurricular activities may seem like potential reasons for substance use, these motivations are generally not aligned with the typical decision-making processes and reasoning patterns observed in young people. Instead, the urge to satisfy curiosity is a predominant factor that drives initial engagement with drugs and alcohol, making it a significant consideration in understanding youth behavior.