Why More and More Teenagers Are Abstaining - Frankfurt teens turn away from alcohol, drugs, and tobacco in record numbers
A long-running study has found that teenagers in Frankfurt are using drugs, alcohol, and tobacco far less than in previous decades. The research, conducted by the Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, shows record-low consumption across almost all substances. Only nicotine pouches, technically banned in Germany, saw a minor increase in use.
The annual survey, carried out since 2002, tracks substance use among 15- to 18-year-olds in Frankfurt schools. This year’s results reveal a sharp decline in nearly every category. Only 10% of young people now smoke daily, while shisha use has dropped to just 23% having ever tried it.
The findings mark the lowest levels of teenage substance use in over 20 years. With fewer young people experimenting with drugs, alcohol, or tobacco, the trend suggests a significant shift in behaviour. The study, unique in Germany, highlights a steady decline across most categories since its launch.
