Why is drug and alcohol abuse observed during adolescence?

(N/A) Adolescence is a period and a process during which a child becomes mature in terms of attitudes and beliefs for effective participation in society. The period between $12$ and $18$ years of age is called adolescence. In other words, adolescence is a bridge linking childhood and adulthood. Adolescence is accompanied by several biological and behavioral changes. Thus, it is a very vulnerable phase of mental and psychological development of an individual.
Curiosity, need for adventure and excitement, and experimentation are common causes that motivate youngsters towards drug and alcohol use. $A$ child's natural curiosity motivates them to experiment.
Perceiving the effects of drugs and alcohol as beneficial makes the problem more complex. Later, adolescents start using them to escape from problems. Some adolescents start using drugs and alcohol under stress and pressure due to poor performance in studies or examinations. There is also a misconception among youth that smoking, or using drugs and alcohol, is a symbol of being '$cool$' or '$progressive$'.
These habits are the primary reasons for their consumption. Media such as television, movies, newspapers, and the internet also promote these habits. Other reasons for drug and alcohol abuse in adolescents include unstable family structures, lack of support, and peer pressure.