What is a key component of the social resistance skills approach in preventing adolescent drug use?

A key component of the social resistance skills approach in preventing adolescent drug use is the ability to say no to peers and critically evaluate advertising. This approach emphasizes equipping adolescents with the skills necessary to navigate social situations where they may encounter pressure to use drugs. By learning to assertively refuse peer pressure, adolescents can develop confidence in their decision-making and strengthen their ability to resist engaging in substance use.

In addition to refusal skills, critically evaluating advertising helps adolescents to recognize and challenge the persuasive messages that promote drug use. This dual focus enhances their critical thinking skills and empowers them to make informed choices about substance use based on their values and beliefs rather than succumbing to external influences.

The other options, while relevant to substance use prevention, do not encapsulate the essence of the social resistance skills approach as thoroughly as the ability to say no and critically evaluate influences. Coping with emotional distress, for instance, is an important aspect of general mental health and resilience but does not specifically address peer dynamics. Understanding family history of substance use lends insight into genetic or environmental factors but does not directly contribute to social resistance skills. Learning to negotiate peer pressure is certainly valuable and overlaps with refusal skills, but it is not as comprehensive as directly stating refusal and critical evaluation of advertising influences.