NCJ Number
207300
Date Published
March 2004
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This guide presents information for education professionals, counselors, family members, and others on the abuse of steroids by school-age children.
Abstract
The abuse of anabolic steroids typically associated to body builders, fitness “buffs,” and professional athletes is now being abused by school-age children with an increasing number of high school seniors believing steroids are not risky to use. A study conducted in 2002, determined that since 1991 there has been a significant increase of steroid use by school-age children. Created by the Drug Enforcement Administration for dissemination to the general public, this guide offers a better understanding of why steroids are being misused, and how policymakers, professionals, and others can provide counseling and implement procedures to educate youth about the dangers of steroids in an attempt to reduce the abuse of anabolic steroids. The guide addresses 10 specific issues related to steroids and steroid abuse: (1) what are anabolic steroids; (2) why are steroids abused; (3) where do you get steroids; (4) how are steroids taken (oral and injection); (5) physical and psychological dangers of steroid use (for boys, girls, and both); (6) laws and penalties for anabolic steroid abuse; (7) common types of steroids abused; (8) steroid alternatives; (9) are anabolic steroids addictive; and (10) how to reduce the abuse of steroids.