Young people, alcohol and drugs

It is normal for teenagers to experiment, take risks and test limits.

It’s part of learning the skills they need to become part of the adult world.

It is important to remember:

• the adolescent brain is still developing the decision-making areas - which means teens often act from emotions and impulses
• parents can help their son or daughter to understand risks and consequences, and learn to make good decisions that keep themselves and others safe
• young people need to practice making decisions - this will help them make good decisions on their own as they get older
• parents have the strongest influence over the attitude their son or daughter has to drugs or alcohol - so they need to set a good example.

Copyright

The information in this section was adapted from the Parent Easy Guide series © Parenting SA, Government of South Australia.