Sexual practices and drug use among the young are examined in this book, calling into question mainstream assumptions about 'adolescence'. Bringing together a range of cross-cultural and cross-national contributions, the book reveals both similarities and important differences that mark sexuality and drug use among young in different social and cultural settings. In doing so, it allows the reader to build up a clearer understanding of the challenges that must be faced in public health and education if we are to develop programs and interventions that really serve the needs of young people. The book will be of interest to professionals working with young people and is suitable for a wide range of multidisciplinary courses covering areas such as human sexuality, sex education, public health and social work.