May/June 2011-Parent Tip on Substance Use
From the NYU Child Study Center, the authors report that substance use typically begins at around age 12 or 13 (1998). The substances most commonly used are alcohol, marijuana and tobacco. As a parent, this may be scary to think about. There are several ways you can help prevent substance use in your own teens.
First, take a look at your own substance use and look through the lens of what your child/adolescent sees. If you are a moderate drinker, for example, it would be important to discuss how drinking is not appropriate for them at their age as opposed to staying silent on the issue. Be aware of other family members' usage and influences as well. Aunt, uncles, cousins, and family friends, all play a role in influencing your child's perception in regards to drug use. Secondly, teens that experience a high level of stress and tension in their home are more likely to use substances and seek peer support for a sense of belonging and enjoyment. Try and make your home positive, loving and supportive. Most importantly; supervise, supervise, and supervise. Are you sure your child is alseep in their bed at night? Many teens sneak out to other teens' homes or meet up in parks at night. Be vigilant about supervision and knowledge of your child's whereabouts. Question your child about where they are going and who they are with. Last but not least, have high expectations of their behavior and monitor their media influences as well. Teach refusal skills and role-play the tough situations they might find themselves in. Some good comebacks are "I got in so much trouble last time, I don't want to risk it." , changing the subject, or taking it but throwing it in the trash or sink when nobody is looking are a couple good strategies/comebacks. It may be helpful to share a time you felt pressured and made a good choice based on your values.
If you are concerned about your child's possible substance use risk factors, please feel free to call me at 206-329-3260 X220 or swing by my office.
Thanks!
Jennifer Moyer-Taylor, MSW, LICSW
First, take a look at your own substance use and look through the lens of what your child/adolescent sees. If you are a moderate drinker, for example, it would be important to discuss how drinking is not appropriate for them at their age as opposed to staying silent on the issue. Be aware of other family members' usage and influences as well. Aunt, uncles, cousins, and family friends, all play a role in influencing your child's perception in regards to drug use. Secondly, teens that experience a high level of stress and tension in their home are more likely to use substances and seek peer support for a sense of belonging and enjoyment. Try and make your home positive, loving and supportive. Most importantly; supervise, supervise, and supervise. Are you sure your child is alseep in their bed at night? Many teens sneak out to other teens' homes or meet up in parks at night. Be vigilant about supervision and knowledge of your child's whereabouts. Question your child about where they are going and who they are with. Last but not least, have high expectations of their behavior and monitor their media influences as well. Teach refusal skills and role-play the tough situations they might find themselves in. Some good comebacks are "I got in so much trouble last time, I don't want to risk it." , changing the subject, or taking it but throwing it in the trash or sink when nobody is looking are a couple good strategies/comebacks. It may be helpful to share a time you felt pressured and made a good choice based on your values.
If you are concerned about your child's possible substance use risk factors, please feel free to call me at 206-329-3260 X220 or swing by my office.
Thanks!
Jennifer Moyer-Taylor, MSW, LICSW