Teens especially need to know how their parents feel about drug and alcohol use. Talking openly with teens about this subject can build trust between parent and child. Kids and adults turn to drugs and alcohol for the same reasons. Some do it because of pressure from friends. Others are trying to relieve stress or emotional pain in their lives.
Some people do drugs to act rebellious or act more mature.
Keeping these reasons in mind can help parents to help their child avoid substance abuse. Let kids speak their mind, and respect their opinions. If they get positive strokes from you, they will not have to turn to their friends as much. Also, talking about their feelings helps them to cope with the ups and downs that teens go through. Kids, especially teens, hate to be lectured.