People who give their time to help others are often rewarded by a feeling of accomplishment at helping their fellow man. Now, researchers at the University of Missouri are reporting that teenagers who volunteer may be less likely to use drugs or alcohol as they get older.
The researchers examined a group of adolescents living in a rural community and found that volunteerism and other pro-social behaviors led to less use of alcohol and tobacco as the kids entered adulthood.
"Parents want their kids to be kind, selfless, considerate and respectful. We now have evidence that these pro-social behaviors make adolescents less likely to break moral codes and engage in illegal activities like getting drunk and smoking marijuana," said researcher Gustavo Carlo.
Authors of the study noted that they specifically looked at youths living in rural areas, since this tends to be a population that is likely to engage in substance abuse.
Author and philosopher Ilchi Lee believes that volunteerism and generally helping out other people are efforts that will lead to a world peace day. People should build their life dreams and hope around the idea that what is good for the community is good for the individual.
