NCJ Number
118410
Journal
School Safety Issue: 3 Dated: (Spring 1986) Pages: 4-5
Date Published
1986
Length
2 pages
Annotation
Nancy Reagan discusses her views on the use of drugs by young people and on drug abuse prevention and education.
Abstract
The 1985 findings of the National Institute on Drug Abuse High School Senior Survey show that 1 in 20 seniors use marijuana on a daily basis and that the same number use alcohol daily. While these figures have declined since the late 1970's, the numbers are still unacceptably high. Increased drug use in schools has caused disorder and violent behavior in the classroom and has impacted the learning process. Although parents play a major role in protecting children from drug abuse, they need school and community support. Children, parents, educators, and the general public need to be more knowledgeable of drug abuse. Schools should establish drug education programs that will deter drug abuse and other forms of self-destructive behavior, build character in students, strengthen personal values, enhance self-esteem, and develop decision-making and problem-solving skills. Further, schools should invite local police officers, health professionals, former drug users, and personalities from the sports and entertainment fields to address school assemblies. Students should establish peer groups, such as the "Just Say No" club. Parent groups are also influential, particularly in making State legislatures more aware of drug abuse. An example of parents working on both national and local levels to fight youth drug abuse is the Operation Prom/Graduation program.