Volatile substance misuse in children and youth: a consideration of theories.

A paucity of research exists in the social sciences regarding the theories explaining volatile substance misuse behavior in children and adolescent. Volatile substances include solvents and inhalants such as modeling glue, aerosol sprays, and gasoline. The explanations found in the literature neither sufficiently nor adequately explain possible motivation and causation. Cultural ideas about life and alcohol, as perceived by adult community members, are significant contributing and motivating variables in children's choices to misuse volatile substances. The social forces within cultural frameworks must be acknowledged to better understand youthful choices to misuse substances.