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. 2001 Dec;91(12):1954-63.
doi: 10.2105/ajph.91.12.1954.

Understanding and responding to youth substance use: the contribution of a health and human rights framework

S Gruskin  1 , K Plafker, A Smith-Estelle
Affiliations

Understanding and responding to youth substance use: the contribution of a health and human rights framework

S Gruskin et al. Am J Public Health. 2001 Dec.

Abstract

This article examines the utility of a health and human rights framework for conceptualizing and responding to the causes and consequences of substance use among young people. It provides operational definitions of "youth" and "substances," a review of current international and national efforts to address substance use among youths, and an introduction to human rights and the intersection between health and human rights. A methodology for modeling vulnerability in relation to harmful substance use is introduced and contemporary international and national responses are discussed. When governments uphold their obligations to respect, protect, and fulfill human rights, vulnerability to harmful substance use and its consequences can be reduced.

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Figures

FIGURE 1—
FIGURE 1—
Model of individual, societal, and program-related vulnerability leading to risk behaviors and to individual risk for substance use. Source. Adapted from Gruskin S, Tarantola D. HIV/AIDS, health and human rights. In: Lamptey P, Gayle H, Mane P, eds. HIV/AIDS Prevention and Care Programs in Resource-Constrained Settings: A Handbook for the Design and Management of Programs. Arlington, Va: Family Health International. In press.
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