The Effect of Substance Abuse on Adolescent Brain DevelopmentThe adolescent brain is a complex entity. The introduction of drugs or mind-altering substances can have a substantial effect on adolescent brain development with long-term effects. Narcotics work by targeting, altering, and interfering with the brain's neurotransmitters. Such interference has been shown to increase the potential for addiction, which can permanently impair still-developing neural connections and interfere with the adolescent's intellectual development. Furthermore, choices related to the continued misuse/abuse of become a significant part of the adolescent's life. These repeated actions and false rewards caused by the pleasant high become a habit, which can be interpreted by the brain as a necessary part of the person's life. The effect of healthy spiritual development on the likelihood of use/abuse/dependence in adolescenceThe myriad of problems that typically accompany adolescent drug abuse is exemplified by McBride's findings that adolescents (particularly those who have experienced some type of trauma or significant abuse) who are already vulnerable due to rapid changes in neurological function “often have a profound sense of spirituality” alienation and emptiness”. (McBride, 1998 p.24). However, the inverse relationship between devout spirituality and drug abuse among adolescents is well documented and promising. As Roehbehan notes; “A strong sense of personal devotion is 65% protective against the onset of heavy substance use in adolescence, far exceeding the 10-30% found for social functioning and cognitive style.” (Roehlkepartian, et al., 2006 p.424) New local coverage of alcohol and/or drug related stories involving teenagers. The Washin......half of the paper......these numbers are only heroin-related deaths and do not illustrate the rise of other drugs, including alcohol, marijuana and drug abuse prescription medicines. In fact, throughout the region, the consumption of heroin, methamphetamine, LSD and ecstasy has increased since 2010. Additionally, abuse of prescription painkillers, particularly Oxycontin, Vicodin, Percocet, and Codeine, has significantly increased. Conclusion The complexity of the adolescent brain can be further complicated by drug and alcohol abuse. The destructive effects of narcotics on the adolescent brain can last a person's entire life. This is alarming as recent studies indicate that drug and alcohol use=g by adolescents is steadily increasing. However, recent studies have also shown that a strong sense of spirituality can help insulate adolescents from the dangers of drug abuse..