Barry R. McCaffrey

In the following viewpoint, Barry R. McCaffrey argues that the substance abuse problem among teenagers is due in part to the influence of the media. McCaffrey asserts that sophisticated pro- drug messages are imparted to youths through music, television, the Internet, and other media. He maintains that while free speech must be protected, the media have the obligation to present the dangerous consequences of drug use accurately. McCaffrey is the director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. How many millions of Americans use drugs regularly, according to the author"

2. In McCaffrey’s view, how does the speed of mass communication affect news reporting on the drug abuse issue"

3. According to McCaffrey, what is the biggest...