FOR PARENTS
Talk Early and Often about Substance Use.
More than 80 percent of young people ages 10-18 say Parents are the leading influence
on their decision whether to engage in substance use.
How to Connect with Youth
Children develop opinions and ideas about alcohol and other substances earlier than you may think. Research suggests that one of the most important factors in healthy child development is a strong, open relationship with a parent or guardian. It is important to start talking to your children about alcohol and other drugs before they are exposed to them. Visit SAMHSA's Talk. They Hear You. "5 Conversation Goals" for conversation starter tips.
Be the #1 Influencer in Teens' Lives
Orange Partnership's student survey results reveal eye-opening data about what youth want to hear about from the parents/adults in their lives about substances:
- Students want to hear from us more often, but free from bias or judgement.
- They want us to be better educated about emerging products like vapes, and marijuana and how they've changed.
- They feel that the "peer influence" is # 1 influencer as to if they use substances.
- Yet, they feel that "Parents" have the least amount of influence.
CONVERSATION TIPS
Orange County Students Want to Hear from Parents About Substance Use:
(roll-over the graphs for more information)
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![A graph showing how often parents / caregivers talk with students about]()
What Substances Do Parents Talk About?
ButtonOrange County students report that parents are less likely to talk about marijuana and prescription drugs - and more likely to talk about alcohol and underage drinking. Read up on emerging products/substances in recording below.
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![A graph showing the influences on substance use in teens]()
Influences on Teen Substance Use
More About Peer Drug Data HereOrange County school students tell us that peer influence is the biggest factor in whether or not they engage in substances. Parents can foster positive peer-influences for their kids and encourage them to build supportive networks of friends who share similar values.
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![A graph showing what would help parents to talk more]()
