THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT

It may seem at times to the parents of teenagers that their kids are living
in a parallel universe to which entry is forbidden. Through their music,
their dress and even their language, teenagers create their own subculture,
which is difficult for adults to fathom. It has always been thus. And it
has always been unnerving for parents who know from their own experience
that the teen years can be full of risks. These are years of growing
independence and the most likely time for experimenting with drugs, alcohol
and sex.

Health Canada penetrated the secretive world in a survey last year, part of
its research for a comprehensive health-promotion strategy that's now being
developed. The Canadian Press reported further details this week from the
full report. Although disturbing trends were revealed, the overall picture
should bring parents some relief.

First, the bad news. The number of teens smoking marijuana in Canada has
increased to 34 per cent from 30 the previous year. (In the United States,
24.5 per cent of teens said they used marijuana last year, a drop of 11
points from the year before.) Most of the Canadian teens who admitted to
marijuana use said they first tried it before the age of 16. Most thought
tobacco posed more of a health risk. And many were influenced by their
peers, the survey reported, joining in "because their friends smoke it, out
of curiosity or a desire to experiment with something new." The use of
harder drugs was less common; 4 per cent said they had tried ecstasy, 3 per
cent crack cocaine, 2 per cent crystal meth and 1 per cent heroin.

The good news came when researchers probed the attitudes of teens toward
the authority figures they so notoriously rebel against. Contrary to what
might have been expected, health-care professionals, police, teachers and
parents enjoy the highest credibility among teens when it comes to
information about drugs. And who are the teens least likely to listen to?
Sports celebrities and members of rock bands.

Seventy-three per cent of teens said they liked school and 86 per cent said
they didn't want to disappoint their parents. Only 35 per cent said they
often felt their parents didn't understand them. "Overall, Canadian teens
perceive themselves having a good relationship with their parents or
guardians," the survey said. And 77 per cent said they didn't like being
with people who use drugs.

The study shows the need for a drug-awareness program aimed at teens,
because they aren't getting the message on the health risks. But it is
encouraging to learn that the kids are in pretty good shape overall. They
like school and trust their parents, teachers and police officers, even if
they may pretend they don't.