With teenagers, many things go in one ear and out the other. But what parents are saying about drugs appears to be sticking.
Parents are more likely to talk with their children about specific risks associated with drugs.
And parents appear to be having an impact. Teen drug use increased steadily from 1992 to 1997. The study also found significant, positive changes in drug-related attitudes among teens, which may signal the beginning of a longer trend away from drug use. Despite their more active role, many parents are overwhelmed by the scope of the drug problem. Parents of all backgrounds say they want additional information on a variety of topics so they can talk more effectively with their kids about drugs.