MOTHERS 'BULWARK AGAINST DRUGS'

Children with close relationships with their mothers are far less likely to
get involved in drug or alcohol abuse, a study claimed yesterday.

But international research also found that good parenting, traditionally
regarded as a barrier that can protect youngsters from drugs culture, was
being undermined in cities where recreational drugs were freely available.

Researchers led by the child psychiatrist Paul McArdle, at Newcastle
University, found 14- and 15-year-olds were less likely to have a drug and
alcohol habit if they lived with both parents in a properly supervised and
loving home.

The study examined 4,000 young people in Newcastle, Dublin, Rome, Bremen in
Germany, and Groningen in the Netherlands. Of those children without
parents at home and without a supportive home life, 42% were likely to be
involved in drugs. If both factors were present, the figure fell to 17%. If
one factor was present the level was 32%. The findings underlined "the
unique role of mothers in regulating the behaviour of the great majority of
young people".

The 4,000 youngsters completed questionnaires assessing the quality of
their relationship with their parents. Questions included whether there was
a carer at home after school, whether the youngsters could confide in
parents, and whether they were warned not to watch too much TV.

It also asked if they ever took cannabis, amphetamines, ecstasy, LSD or
tranquillisers, or regularly drank alcohol.

Dr McArdle said: "It shows the quality of family life is at the core of the
problem. Yet this message is largely absent from drugs prevention
campaigns. No one tackles parental responsibility. I believe effective
prevention of drug use is more about family relationships than any other
factor."