With the current divorce rate, we certainly can't assume that the person supporting the student financially, is the one with the most influential personal relationship. These complexities will likely mean a notification policy will be selectively and inequitably applied. The evidence that parental notification is effective is inconclusive at best. Even if the evidence were there, we should be careful about endorsing a policy that so violates an adult citizen's right to privacy. College students should certainly be held accountable , as adults, for their actions if they violate the law or campus alcohol policy.
Colleges do have a responsibility to address issues of alcohol use on campus.
However, a student involved in a second or third serious incident related to alcohol or drugs needs screening and possible referral to professionals trained in treating addiction, not a referral to parents. Be sure to include your name and affiliation. Legitimate requests for anonymity will be honored. The Chronicle maintains Colloquy as an open forum where readers can comment on issues. Submissions may be condensed or edited for clarity, but editing is kept to a minimum.