Are You to Blame for Your Teenager's Habit of Substance Abuse?

According to a study by Laine et al. 2001, problematic family and partner relations can increase the risk of your child taking illicit drugs. The study found that adolescents who argued with their mom or dad only once a week to once a month were less likely to have used marijuana in the last year than those who had an angry exchange at least several times a week.

roll of child abuse

How can you discipline your adolescent children without arguing with them? When teenage children make mistakes, it is an act of love to teach them. Discipline does not mean arguing with your son or daughter.

Do not discipline when you are angry. It only complicates matters. Let tempers cool down and then talk to your boy or daughter. First, explain the problem and why it is wrong to behave the way your teenager conducted himself.

An example is when your daughter comes home late, after the agreed time limit. Let her in and talk to her the next day when you have cooled down. Explain to her why coming back late is not safe for her and the family. Hanging out with friends at their homes or coffee houses late at night can result in trouble.

Secondly, give your teenager a punishment, especially if she refuses to comply with several warnings. Be firm. You can stop doing her laundry or take away some other favor. If she threatens to move out, tell her to do what feels is right but remind her that no one will care for her as you do.

When you leave your teenager to do whatever she wants, it doesn’t make her feel more secure or loved. Being firm on what is right without arguing with your daughter is the right way to train her for the challenges of adult life.

You cannot eliminate arguing entirely, but you can limit it. Heated arguments with your daughter increase her vexation and the risk of her turning to substance abuse to escape reality and relieve anxiety.

Resources: Substance Abuse - Family Factors Contributing To Risk And Resiliency