Adolescence in a fast-transitioning world: Tentative policies as regards the harmful use of substances

Abstract

This article summarizes data and information about the transformations in adolescence/youth in the contemporary context and their association with the use and abuse of psychoactive substances. Given the profound reformulation of markets and habits related to legal and illegal substances, often combined, it is necessary to rethink the frameworks for regulation, prevention, and treatment. Although traditional markets and habits, both legal (e.g., alcohol, and tobacco) and illegal (with the predominance of cocaine and cannabis derivatives), prevail in the Brazilian context, it is necessary to probe new markets and patterns of use. Rapid and profound transformations should not lead to fear, indifference, or inertia. Contemporary science and society have the tools to deal with these challenges. Setting aside the absolute relativization of concepts and policies, as well as assertiveness without a conceptual or empirical basis, it is necessary to advance ‘tentative policies’. Provisional does not mean an absence of criteria or frameworks, but rather their renewal. It is necessary to combine: bounded rationality; concepts and methods of ‘Decision-making in contexts of uncertainty’, and citizen science. Under this guidance, it is possible to deal with challenges in a renewed and successful way in this and other fields of science and social life.