Good parenting counters addiction

RESEARCH shows that parenting practices can influence young people's behaviour towards addictive substances and behaviour.


Two workshop speakers, Ms Jade Teo and Ms Quek Li Koon, noted that teenagers are more likely to use illicit drugs if they are not monitored by adults after school.


In a US study, two-thirds of young people aged 13 to 17 said their parents' respect for them is one of the main reasons they stay away from drugs.


Teens are also less likely to get involved with drugs if their parents influence their choice of friends, Ms Teo said.


However, parents who had a history of substance addiction find that their children also have a tendency to become dependent on drugs or alcohol.


Parents must be able to establish good, honest and open relationships with their teenaged children. They need to set clear boundaries and expectations, and be affirming to their children. Those who are overly permissive, inconsistent, unrealistically demanding or excessively harsh when instilling discipline often realise that their children have started to seek solace from drugs.


It is vital that family life becomes a safe and secure refuge for children. The family is often cited as a reason for an addict to want to change, said Mr Benny Bong, a family and marital therapist. The support of family is important to sustain the addict's recovery.