The vast majority of teenagers don't take drugs or drink because they are clinically depressed, suicidal, or lacking in self-esteem. You can prohibit your teenagers from drinking or taking drugs but that does not necessarily mean you can prevent it. This does not mean that you should casually accept your child's alcohol and drug experimentation. Your biggest concern should be the prevention of chronic use and addiction. Your teens will notice any hypocrisy on your part.
Talk is cheap.
Serve as your own example of your beliefs and values concerning drugs and alcohol. In place of scary theories, you can give them facts. Get the scoop on the great American smokeout. Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids Tell them that drugs and alcohol make teens more prone to dangerous accidents. Tell them they can never trust the quality of drugs or know exactly how they will respond to them.