DON'T MISS GOOD NEWS ON YOUTH

Drug, alcohol and cigarette use among 6-12 graders has fallen dramatically,
according to a national study released last week.

The 2001-02 annual Pride Survey reported that alcohol and cigarette use is
at its lowest level in 15 years. Drug use is at its lowest level in eight
years, according to the survey.

The reason?

The results may reflect a cultural reaction to the terrorist attack of
Sept. 11, suggested survey officials.

"Following 9/11 Americans seemed to refocus on family, community,
spirituality and nation," said survey author Thomas J. Gleaton. "That
renewed awareness shows up in the data."

John P. Walters, director of National Drug Control Policy said, "This
year's Pride Survey suggests that young Americans may be taking their lives
and communities more seriously by saying no to drugs."

The Pride Survey has been conducted for 15 years. The national results are
based anonymous, voluntary questionnaires returned by 101,882 students in
21 states. Pride does not provide state breakdowns.

Preliminary results from 2001 the Lincoln-Lancaster Youth Behavioral Risk
survey of 9-12 graders, while encouraging in some respects, are not quite
as bright as the national findings. Marijuana use among local teens rose to
24.7 percent in 2001. The survey does show, however, that tobacco use has
dropped from 18.3 percent in 1991 to 10.7 percent. Cocaine use remains low
at 3.3 percent. Alcohol use among local teens remains fairly level.

If the analyses of the reasons for the national declines are on target,
they would confirm the conventional wisdom that involved parents are one of
the most effective forces against drug, alcohol and tobacco use.

By warning against drugs and encouraging their children to engage in
extracurricular activities and just spending time together, parents affect
teen decision-making. Among youths who participated in extracurricular
activites, only 17 percent used drugs, compared to 32 percent among kids
who were not involved.

Educators who deliver warnings against drug use, the survey found. When
teachers warned students frequently, only 15 percent used drugs. When
teachers never delivered warnings, 32 percent used drugs.

It is tragic that it may have taken an event as horrific as 9/11 to drive
home the value of parental and community involvement in turning America's
youth away from use of dangerous substances.

It would be even more tragic if the lesson were quickly forgotten.

At the moment, however, the survey findings should be celebrated. Parents,
educators and youths, take a bow. Your success is appreciated.