FEWER DANE COUNTY TEENS SMOKING POT

Madison - Marijuana smoking has declined significantly among Dane
County teenagers since the 1980s, a new survey shows.

The survey, which included 160 questions on topics such as school,
friends, family, health and worries, has been conducted every five
years since 1980. The latest survey, released last week, found that
25% of the teens reported they used marijuana, compared with 37% in
1980.

The survey also found alcohol use among teens was down, but more than
60% of high school seniors reported that most of their friends drink
or take drugs. And teens are more likely to be successful in school
and to avoid suicidal thoughts if their parents are involved in their
lives.

Teens with stronger parental monitoring also were less likely to
engage in binge drinking, sex, gang activity or driving while
intoxicated, according to the survey.