Have you ever wondered why some kids choose to stay drug-free, even when it seems like “everyone else is doing it”? There’s actually a lot of science that explains it, and it’s exactly why Natural High is so effective.
As a parent, educator, or mentor, you want to do the right thing. You’re trying to guide the young people in your life toward healthy decisions in a world that often sends mixed messages. It can feel overwhelming. But here’s the encouraging part: decades of research support what we’re doing at Natural High.
Kids are more likely to thrive when they look up to someone positive, feel connected to something meaningful, and understand what’s really going on around them.
Two powerful theories, Social Learning Theory and Social Norms Theory, help explain why this works.
Social Learning Theory: The Influence of Positive Role Models
Albert Bandura’s Social Learning Theory explains that we learn by observing others, especially those we admire.
Young people are no different. They watch. They mimic. They learn.
At Natural High, we tap into this by sharing real stories from athletes, musicians, creators, and leaders who live drug-free lives and pursue their passions.
We call them Storytellers. Their stories help reshape what kids believe is possible for their own lives.
When a teen watches Bethany Hamilton talk about resilience, or listens to Tony Hawk share how skateboarding became his source of joy, it leaves an impression. Those stories stick.
And more importantly, they start to become part of the teen’s own narrative.
Stories also trigger brain chemicals like oxytocin and dopamine, making the experience feel personal and emotional.
It’s not just a story anymore, it becomes something they feel and remember.
“A story is the only way to activate parts in the brain so that a listener turns the story into their own idea and experience.” – Uri Hasson, Princeton neuroscientist
Those stories stick. And more importantly, they start to become part of the teen’s own narrative.
But it’s not just celebrities who have influence. Parents, teachers, older siblings, and mentors are powerful role models, too.
In fact, the everyday choices adults make, often without even realizing it, can have a lasting impact.
Everyday Examples of Adults Modeling Confidence Over Conformity
1. Declining Alcohol at Social Events
- “No thanks, I’m good with water tonight.”
- Shows that fitting in doesn’t require substance use or going along with the crowd.
2. Choosing Comfortable or Practical Clothing Over Trends
- “I know it’s not what everyone else is wearing, but I feel like myself in this.”
- Sends the message that style is about self-expression, not approval.
3. Speaking Up with a Different Opinion in Group Settings
- “I see it a little differently, and here’s why…”
- Demonstrates respectful disagreement and independent thinking.
4. Pursuing a Unique Hobby or Passion
- “I know it’s not super common, but I love [gardening, painting miniatures, trail running, etc.]. It brings me joy.”
- Encourages kids to follow what lights them up, not just what’s popular.
5. Setting Boundaries, Even When It’s Uncomfortable
- “That’s not something I’m comfortable with, but thank you for inviting me.”
- Models the importance of protecting your values and energy.
6. Avoiding Gossip or Negative Talk to Be Accepted
- “I’d rather not talk about them when they’re not here.”
- Shows kids it’s okay, and important, to walk away from harmful social dynamics.
7. Choosing a Simpler Lifestyle
- “We don’t need the newest version—what we have works just fine.”
- Reflects confidence in your choices and a rejection of comparison culture.
8. Laughing at Yourself
- “Yep, I totally messed that up. Oh well!”
- Reinforces that perfection isn’t required, and self-acceptance is key.
9. Being Honest About Your Feelings
- “I was nervous to try this, but I’m doing it anyway.”
- Highlights that courage is doing something even when it’s hard, not being fearless.
10. Supporting Someone Else Who’s Different
- “I think it’s great that they’re doing what they love, even if it’s not what everyone else would choose.”
- Teaches kids to appreciate individuality in others, too.
Social Norms Theory: Reframing What’s “Normal”
Now let’s talk about perception. A lot of teens believe that most of their peers are drinking or using drugs. And that belief alone can influence their choices.
That’s where Social Norms Theory comes in. It tells us that kids tend to overestimate risky behaviors in their peer group. If they think “everyone is doing it,” they’re more likely to join in, even if that’s not actually true.
The truth?
Most teens don’t use drugs or alcohol. But they often don’t know that.
Correcting this misperception is one of the most powerful prevention tools we have.
At Natural High, we consistently share real data, along with examples of young people living full, exciting, substance-free lives. We don’t just say “don’t do drugs”. We show them what they can say yes to instead.
“When kids discover the truth that not as many kids as they think are using drugs and alcohol, they’re less likely to use them too.”
How Parents/Caregivers Can Talk About What’s Actually Normal
It’s one thing to know that most teens aren’t using drugs or alcohol. It’s another to help your kid believe it. These conversations work best when they feel relaxed and part of everyday life. Look for casual moments, like while driving, eating dinner, or reacting to something in the news, to share a quick insight or ask a gentle question.
You don’t need a speech or a lecture. Just a few well-timed words can help shift their perspective.
Scripts Adults Can Use to Correct Misperceptions About Substance Use
- When your teen says “Everyone drinks.”
“It might seem that way. But actually, most teens don’t. The loudest choices usually get the most attention, but they aren’t the most common.”
- When a teen feels pressure to fit in and vape or drink alcohol:
“It makes sense to want to fit in. But fitting in doesn’t have to mean doing what others are doing. In fact, most teens are choosing not to use, it’s just not what gets talked about.”
- To start a casual, nonjudgmental convo:
“I saw a stat the other day. Did you know most teens actually don’t use drugs or alcohol? I thought that was pretty encouraging.”
- If a teen says “It’s not a big deal. Everyone tries stuff.”
“Most teens actually don’t. The truth just doesn’t get shared as much. But the majority are making healthy choices, and that really matters.”
- When encouraging critical thinking:
“Before you assume everyone’s doing something, ask yourself where that idea came from. Do I know that for sure, or does it just feel true?”
How Educators Can Reinforce Real Norms at School
Teachers and school staff have daily opportunities to help students rethink what’s “normal.” That doesn’t mean delivering a lecture. It can be as simple as weaving real data into class discussions or highlighting students who make healthy choices.
Here are a few ways to do that:
In a formal setting:
- Use updated prevention materials that include current stats on teen behavior.
- Assign writing prompts or discussions that explore peer pressure and decision-making.
- Integrate stories from Natural High Storytellers into health or advisory lessons.
In casual moments:
- If a student says “Everyone’s vaping,” respond calmly with a fact like, “Actually, most teens aren’t.”
- And if you want to back it up with real numbers, check out MonitoringTheFuture.org. It’s a national survey that shares what thousands of teens say about things like vaping, drug use, and choosing not to use at all.
- Celebrate healthy choices just like academic ones. For example, “That’s awesome that you spent your weekend training instead of partying. Sounds like you’re really focused.”
- Use teachable moments, like comments, news stories, or peer conflicts, to gently correct false assumptions.
Even small statements, repeated over time, can shift how students see themselves and each other. The goal isn’t to lecture. It’s to help truth feel normal and visible.
Natural High: Bringing the Science to Life
What makes Natural High special is how seamlessly we combine these two theories.
Our approach makes prevention feel real, relatable, and empowering.
Here’s how we bring these ideas to life every day:
Through Social Learning Theory, we:
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- Share real, relatable stories from role models kids admire
- Encourage parents and educators to model what healthy choices look like
- Make space for kids to learn from each other
- Share real, relatable stories from role models kids admire
Through Social Norms Theory, we:
- Share real data to correct what kids think is normal
- Celebrate kids who are choosing to stay substance-free
- Help adults guide kids through the noise and pressure
We don’t rely on scare tactics or outdated scripts. Instead, we focus on inspiring kids to discover what lights them up and giving them the confidence to pursue it.
That feeling of joy and purpose—what we call a “natural high”—is more powerful than any high from a substance.
And while inspiration is a powerful foundation, we also give kids the tools they need to make it last: like managing emotions, standing up to peer pressure, and practicing how to say “no” with confidence.
If you’re a parent, teacher, coach, or mentor, know this: you don’t need a psychology degree to make an impact. Just by having honest conversations, sharing inspiring stories, and encouraging your kids to follow their passions, you’re helping shift their mindset.
You’re giving them the tools they need to live well, and that’s what it’s all about.
Want to go deeper? Sign up for the NH essentials to learn how you can turn everyday moments into powerful life lessons one week at a time.
Let’s keep showing up for our kids with truth, hope, and stories that stick.