Recent studies have shown that alcohol is the leading gateway drug for teenagers. Gateway drugs are substances people take that 21 them to take more drugs. Alcohol works directly on the central nervous system and alters one’s moods and limits judgment. Since its way of altering moods (changing one’s state of mind) is generally expected and socially acceptable, oftentimes it 22 over drinking. Habitual drinkers may find alcohol not stimulating enough 23 and want to seek other more stimulating substances. 24 a circumstance often preconditions teenagers to the possibility of taking other drugs such as marijuana, cocaine or heroin. Another reason why alcohol is the main gateway drug is that the 25 of teenagers it can affect is very wide. It is easily accessible in most societies and common in popular events such as sports gatherings and dinner parties.
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