Group norms for behaviour influence people to behave in certain ways. Kids smoke because it is seen as “cool” and rebellious, and marks the smoker as a person possessing valued adult characteristics (independent, free-thinking, risk-taking) in the eyes of other kids. International research shows that most people begin to use drugs recreationally in teen age. After about 25 years old, few people begin such behaviours. However, once established, most drug users continue to use their drug of choice for the rest of their lives or until detrimental effects occur. Drinking, drug-use and smoking are, then, largely social activities, as they always have been.