Barry R. McCaffrey

In the following viewpoint, Barry R. McCaffrey maintains that as the youth population increases, proportionately more youths will abuse drugs. McCaffrey asserts that youths who actively use alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs are likely to experience long-term struggles with substance abuse. Therefore, he warns that failing to prevent youth substance abuse today will result in a much larger problem in the future. Mc- Caffrey is former director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). As a component of the Executive Office of the President, the ONDCP aims to reduce the trafficking, manufacturing, and use of illegal drugs.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. In McCaffrey’s view, why do two-wage-earner households present a problem for America’s youths"
2. In the author’s opinion, why has the...