DRUGS AND SEX

Re "Teenagers report less sex, more drug use," Jan. 31: In the two
areas of teen behavior, smoking and sexual activity, where education
and prevention methods are the means of influence, the results have
been positive: cigarette smoking down and use of condoms rose.

Conversely, in the area of drug use, where repression and interdiction
(making the behavior illegal) are primary means used to control and
influence behavior, it has been a significant failure. Drug sales on
campuses also rose, indicating ready availability.

I wonder how much longer it will take for government officials to
recognize what the general populace seems to understand for some time
now, that making these substances illegal makes them even more
exciting to risk-taking teens, and educating them does have some
positive effects.

- - Amy Jaynes, Sacramento