CONVERSATIONS: WHAT TO SAY

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	Conversations: What to Say
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Hear real stories from parents who have been there.

"Teens need their space but at the same time a parent should know what they’re doing. If the kid feels like you do not trust him, he will not trust you. Period."
— Anonymous teen

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Having the Conversation ... with the Whole Family

As a parent of a child who is using drugs, you may need to enlist the support of your extended family and close family friends. You may also need to discuss the problem with siblings particularly if the siblings are close in age.

Four million teens say they have an older sibling who uses marijuana. Just over one million teens say they have a younger sibling who uses marijuana. (Source: Partnership Attitude Tracking Study, 2002)

Remember younger brothers and sisters tend to follow in their siblings’ footsteps, so it’s critical to include the entire family in your discussion when you set clear rules about staying drug, and alcohol free.

Key Talking Points:

Drug and alcohol use by teens is not allowed in this family.
There are consequences for bad behavior in this family. Are you clear about them?
If you know that your brother or sister is using alcohol or drugs, we expect you to tell us. This is not “snitching;” rather, it is loving your sibling by not enabling him/her.
We are here to support and protect all our children from danger. That’s what families do for each other.

Sponsored by The National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign