Prevention: what’s love got to do with it? Plenty! Especially with regard to tweens and teens. Dating and exposure to drugs and alcohol are some of the things parents worry about most during their kids’ adolescence. Let’s look at some of the facts.
According to loveisrespect.org, a collaboration between Break the Cycle and The National Domestic Violence Hotline, as much as 72% of eighth and ninth graders are in relationships they consider to be “dating.” Research has shown that there is a parallel between early dating and risk factors like poor performance in school, dropping out and problems with drugs and alcohol. The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse found a direct correlation between the amount of time a couple spends together and the number of sexually active friends they have with an increase in drug and alcohol use.
Kids involved with drug and alcohol are at an increased risk of being involved in abusive relationships, becoming addicted, and making poor decisions that can lead to unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases. This is why parents need to step in instead of stepping back when their kids approach adolescence. Some things that parents can do to lower such risks for their children include:
· Foster and maintain open communication by listening with your heart to your child’s concerns. Even if it seems like inconsequential puppy love to you, it may be a big deal to your child.
· Help your child recognize the characteristics of a healthy relationship and red flags before they begin dating. Model and teach respectful behavior.
· Place healthy limits on the amount of time your child spends with their romantic interest. Provide and encourage activities that support their growth as individuals and self-esteem.
· Sometimes young teens feel pressure to form romantic entanglements before they’re ready. Parents can relieve this pressure by setting expectations regarding what is and is not appropriate at various ages.
· Learn more by enrolling in one of DrugFreeAZKids.org’s free Active Parenting workshops.
· Tune in to DrugFreeAZKids.org’s free lunchtime webinar on dating and substance abuse on Wednesday, February 11 from noon to 12:30.
Kids whose parents speak to them early and often about risky behavior are up to 50% less likely to fall prey to such dangers. Parents, let’s all maximize the important influence we have with our kids to improve the likelihood that they’ll reach adulthood safely, healthily and successfully.
