Distortion of value orientations as a risk factor of adolescents’ use of psychoactive substances

The contribution examines specific distortions of value orientations of minors inclined to use of psychoactive substances (PAS). It analyses statistical data on prevalence of persons who use PAS among young people, describes the risk factors of addictive behavior. The results of the empirical research show that adolescents inclined toward use of PAS, show distortions in the structure and content of life meaning orientations. They can be characterized by lesser coherence of world view structures, their patchiness, distortion and insufficient development of value hierarchy. Such minors have a fairly low evaluation of their possibilities, value and potential of their life. Adolescents who are inclined toward addiction to PAS have an unrealistic view of their life, they evaluate the past events of their life mainly negatively which leads to negative perception of their future life prospects which are based on non-specific generalized perceptions. Displays of activity of adolescents with addictive behavior are largely defined by their situational needs which are not included in the wider sensible context of social functioning.