Final answer:
The statement about increased prescription drug and amphetamine use among American teens who utilize drugs has basis in past trends showing concerns over prescription drug abuse. However, the specific figures quoted (like the 52% finishing high school without trying illegal drugs) require current data to confirm. The survey's 6% figure represents teens' intent to study abroad, not drug use.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that a greater number of American teenagers are now finishing high school without ever trying an illegal drug, but that there is an alarming increase in the use of prescription drugs and amphetamines among those who do use drugs, is partly true and partly based on older trend observations. The increasing misuse of prescription medications and amphetamines among American teens has been a public health concern. A recent survey of U.S. teenagers noted by the question does not support this claim directly but does provide context on the behavior of teenagers relating to drug use and aspirations like studying abroad.
Indeed, according to various studies, there has been a significant change in drug use patterns among teenagers, which includes a rise in the misuse of prescription drugs. For example, the opioid epidemic has been linked to increases in prescription painkiller use, which often serves as a gateway to illicit drugs such as heroin. Additionally, the increased availability of prescription opioids has led to a dramatic shift in drug abuse patterns.
Concerning the subject of teenagers planning on going to college in another country, a survey found that 6% of teenagers surveyed aged 15-18 have such plans, though this information is not directly related to the initial statement about drug use. It does, however, reflect a specific statistic related to teenagers' future planning.