Volunteer work to some of the teens sounds unappealing because it takes time away from their own lives. But those who spend time lending a hand to others will find another reason for volunteering aside from the joy of giving.

The newest study from the University of Missouri gives a new meaning to the saying "helping others helps yourself."

According to Gustavo Carlo, Millsap Professor of Diversity in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies, analyzed the data from surveys given to a group of rural youths from junior high school to young adulthood. Carlo discovered that prosocial behaviors such as volunteering and helping others protect adolescents from engaging in risky behaviors.

With these findings, Carlo concluded that teens who engage in more prosocial behaviors are less likely to get drunk or use marijuana as young adults.

Citing that parents want their kids to be kind, selfless, considerate and respectful through volunteering, Carlo said that now there is evidence that these prosocial behaviors lead to teens being more obedient to moral codes and less likely to engage in illegal activities.

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, young adults between the ages of 18 and 25 reportedly have the highest rates of using illegal substances and being dependent to them. Carlo said that this is because the youth are not engaged in positive, structured activities.

The professor added that if programs that foster prosocial behaviors were developed, it will most likely decrease the risk of adolescents using substances in their adulthood.

But not only does volunteering help teenagers steer clear of doing illegal activities, it also helps them become a better person. According to HelpGuide.com, volunteering has a number of positive benefits:

1. Make new friends - volunteering is known to be an activity that ties the whole community together, and with a common goal, it is easy to meet new friends

2. Increases social and relationship skills - helping others gives the opportunity to practice and develop social skills of those who are shy, in addition, helps reduce depression

3. Increases self-confidence - since doing the right thing naturally gives people a sense of accomplishment, it builds confidence

4. Maintains physical fitness - studies have shown that those who volunteer have a lower mortality rate than those who do not

5. Provides career experience and job skills - with volunteering comes chores and jobs that can help teens on their way to their careers