Talking with Teens About Substance Use
Many parents struggle with discussions with their children about substance use. The subject may feel daunting or overly complex. The U.S. Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration and U.S. Department of Education offers some great suggestions for parents on how to talk with their teens about drugs and alcohol as well as conversation starters:
With a forward-looking lens, remind your children that substance use can interfere with their dreams. It can affect job prospects, military service and college admissions.
Communicate that marijuana use is illegal for young people and negatively affects the developing brain. They may try to debate with you.
Teens crave independence and need limits. Solicit their input on both setting limits like curfews and on consequences for rule-breaking. Follow through if they break rules.
Reinforce that you care about and value your children. Spend time with them. A strong bond will increase the likelihood that they approach you with questions or concerns.
Know trends in commonly misused substances. New drugs routinely emerge. Ask your child about drugs that show up at school, at parties or at friends’ houses.
Do not allow your children to drink at home or host parties with alcohol. Permitting this behavior would reflect approval of underage drinking. You could be held liable for what happens to minors who consume alcohol on your property even after they leave.
Praise your children when they make good choices. If your children believe that you are proud of them, it may incentivize them to remain drug free.
Attend with your child a program for college freshmen on the school’s substance misuse prevention policies and services. If a program is not offered, accompany your child to obtain that information. Make sure your child understands legal and school penalties for substance use violations.
Take time to talk with your teen about substance use, they are listening.
Source: Drug Enforcement Administration and U.S. Department of Education, Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent’s Guide to Prevention, Washington, D.C., 2017.