CHILDREN: FAMILY DYSFUNCTION

Many drug prevention advocates urge parents to get involved with their
children and to talk to them about drugs. Some parents are doing exactly
that, but not with the results intended.

In a recent survey of people in drug treatment programs, conducted by
Phoenix House drug treatment centers in Florida and three other states,

20 percent said they had used illegal drugs with parents, usually before
they turned 18. Seventy-six percent of those people had smoked marijuana
with their parents, 19 percent had used crack with them and 16 had shared
cocaine.

What's more, 5 percent actually were introduced to drugs by their parents.

As the Phoenix House president grimly put it, "Some parents today regard
teenage drug use as no more than a youthful rite of passage. ... We have
met the neighborhood drug pusher, and he is us."

Perhaps that should be no surprise. Drug use has been widespread for over
30 years. Parents who grew up in a drug culture and who use drugs aren't
known for responsible behavior.

The day before this story broke, coincidentally, Reuters reported that
studies show strong religious beliefs may stem substance abuse. In addition
to getting themselves treatment, when needed, parents might be well advised
to see that their children have some religious upbringing. The extended
family -- grandparents, aunts and uncles -- needs to watch carefully and
intervene when needed.

A young person's potential should not be wasted, if it can be avoided.