Can Parents Keep their Kids Off Drugs?

Posted on March 9, 2010

Much attention has been given to the role of peers in adolescents’ decisions about substance abuse. Programs focus on peer pressure and the importance of school environment and how extracurricular activities may also play a role in shaping behaviors related to drugs and alcohol.

Study Examines Influence of Adolescent Romance on Partner Alcohol Use

Posted on October 7, 2009

The question of which came first enters into a variety of scenarios when studying activities, habits and friends of adolescents. When alcohol is entered into the mix, one of the questions asked is in relation to the people surrounding the adolescent. Are these people in the picture because of the alcohol, or are they the reason for it?

20 Ways to Say “No” to Alcohol & Drugs

Posted on June 26, 2009

Sometimes the hardest thing to do is to say no – especially to a friend. But when it comes to your friends urging you to drink or do a drug, that’s exactly what you have to do. Here are some rebuttals you may find effective. Feel free to elaborate or change them to suit your own circumstances, age, marital or family status, personality, comfort level or needs. After all, it’s all up to you.

Helping Your Teen Cope with Peer Pressure to Drink or Use Drugs

Posted on May 22, 2009

By Suzanne Kane

Parents know that peer pressure is a powerful force in teens’ lives. Not all peer pressure is bad, but some is very dangerous. Peer pressures to study hard, get good grades, excel in sports or other activities are often beneficial. When it comes to drinking and doing drugs, however, this powerful group force can have a very negative effect. Peer pressure can lead to teens making poor decisions, including those involving alcohol and drugs. But you can help your teens counteract the urge to go along with the group to drink and/or do drugs. What are some strategies to help teens cope with dangerous peer pressure?

Peer Pressure to Drink Jumps When Teens Reach High School

Posted on May 22, 2009

School administrators have a lot to worry about on a daily basis, and unfortunately, the instance of drug use and abuse is at the top of the list. For administrators in Saratoga Springs, they have tried to get in front of the issue by conducting a biannual survey to fully understand the problem within their school district.