NCJ Number
105326
Date Published
1987
Length
180 pages
Annotation
This book provides information to parents on the drugs commonly used by juveniles and offers parents suggestions for prevention, early detection, and intervention.
Abstract
Following a review of the characteristics of the typical adolescent and his/her vulnerability to peer pressure for drug use, the book presents facts about drugs and their effects. The drugs covered are alcohol, nicotine, marijuana, cocaine and 'crack,' and designer drugs. A description of the teen social scene considers social environments conducive to drug use, such as 'hanging out' at various spots, 'keg parties,' and drunk driving. Practical suggestions to parents for preventing juvenile drug use are to become informed about the problem, confront the issue before there is a problem, express concern for the adolescent, help the child to develop decisionmaking skills, and help the child build self-confidence. Suggestions for intervention focus on signs of drug use and abuse and how to deal with juvenile problem drinkers, drug experimentation, recreational drug use, and advanced drug use. The values and methods of counseling, treatment, and aftercare are discussed, and juveniles are instructed in how to handle peer pressure and other factors in the adolescent's environment which might stimulate drug use. Appended supplementary information, 30 suggested readings, and subject index.