Teenagers & Drug Abuse - What Parents Can Do

Even well-adjusted teens may be tempted to try drugs or alcohol from time to time.  What can parents do to keep their kids safe?  Parents often minimize the problem, thinking the problem is somewhere else, not in their home.  For your child's sake, be aware of the odds.

• One out of 20 high school seniors drink alcohol daily.
• The marijuana of today is not the relatively benign drug many baby boomers think of.  It contacts 5-10 times more THC (tetrahydracannabinol) than the marijuana of the 60s and 70s and causes significant impairment of judgment.
• One out of four children in every classroom is living with chemical dependency.
• Over 50% of all teenage drivers who die in car crashes have alcohol in their blood.  Many fail to use seat belts.

Studies show peer pressure is the most frequent reason people initially try drugs or alcohol.  Help your child learn ways to avoid trouble when someone offers drugs.  Below are some possibilities.

11 Ways Teens Can Avoid Trouble

1. Broken Record - I'm not interested; I'm not interested; I'm not interested (or some other phrase that says no until the other person gives up).
2. Leave - If you're in a large group, you can probably slip away unnoticed.  If you're in a smaller group, it is important HOW you leave.  Walk away with a confident attitude, shaking your head like you can't believe what someone just said to you.  Keep on going to avoid further teasing and further pressure.
3. Ignore - Pretend you didn't hear, listen to your headphones, appear to be deep in thought, pack your (school) bag and go.  Avoid the area the next day.
4. Make an Excuse - I've got chores;  I'm studying for a test; I always get caught.  Take me along and we'll all get in trouble.  Sure fire:  I don't feel well, then go to the bathroom and take a very long time!
5. Change the subject - Hey, did you see that HBO special last night? Great outfit you're wearing.
6. Make a joke - I wish I could, but I've got to walk my goldfish... rearrange my sock drawer.
7. Act shocked - I know you didn't mean THAT!;  I can't believe what I just heard; I won't even discuss it!; Earth calling ________.
8. Flattery - You're too smart to really mean that; you have a really good brain.  Use it to think of something that won't get us grounded for the rest of our lives.
9. A better idea - (with enthusiasm) Hey, I've got a better idea - let's __________________ (play a sport, watch a movie, visit a friend) - and then go do it.
10. Return the challenge - If someone is pressuring you, even taunting or name calling, don't give in.  Example:  I thought you were my friend!  Response:  Yes, I am.  If you were my friend, you wouldn't try to talk me into doing something I don't want to do.
11. Chicken - If someone calls you a chicken, say "What's wrong with chickens?" or walk away, flapping your arms like a chicken.

Guidelines for Teenage Parties:

• Plan in advance:  Know the guest list.  Have limited invitations.  No open party.
• Set a time limit:  Consider daytime skating parties instead of evening parties.
• Agree to rules ahead of time: No drugs, smoking or gate crashers; lights on;  rooms that are off limits.
• Know your responsibilities:  It is illegal to serve alcohol to minors.
• Invite another parent or couple over.  Other adults are company and can be of help with problems.
• Have plenty of soft drinks.
• Set a good example.  Your children do as you do.

Resources:
"Here's Looking at You," 2000 - PA Department of Education, PA Liquor Control Board, "How to Say No and Keep Your Friends" - Sharon Scott.  "Keeping Kids Safe " - National Crime Prevention Council