NCJ Number
194754
Date Published
1997
Length
170 pages
Annotation
This "do-it-yourself" handbook is designed to help parents raise drug-free children. Methods of effective communication, rational solutions and resources are provided.
Abstract
Author Thomas J. Gleaton, Jr., Ed.D., is a pioneer in the area of drugs and youth. He founded PRIDE, the National Parents' Resource Institute for Drug Education, in 1977 and held the first drug conference a year later. Currently, the annual conference draws 10,000 participants. Today's drugs are more potent and deadlier than in earlier years and there is research that documents a strong relationship between drug use and violence. In short, more is now known about drug use and its affect on youth. Values and attitudes towards a multitude of issues begin at home. The author reminds parents that open communication is key to knowing their child. Family meetings to talk openly about drug use are encouraged, and recommended to begin by age 10 and to continue depending on the child's stage of development. A unique feature of this handbook is a section entitled "Case in Point." These provide different ways parents can handle talking with their children about drug use. Every child is different and these examples of communicating give parents options of how to best approach the issue of drug use with their child. Useful reminders and suggestions are provided in a segment labeled "Exercise to Strengthen Your Family Power." This handbook has an extensive appendix with information about certain drugs and has a well-written and detailed chart about groups of drugs and includes slang terms, method of use, addictive power, effects, and other facts. Appendix 3 provides scripts of family game show activities that assists families in learning together about the dangers of drugs. Appendix 4 deals with talking points. The remaining Appendixes list drug prevention resources available to parents, including Internet resources.