As any parent knows, it is difficult to stop teens from doing anything they have decided they are going to do, especially if their friends are doing it. Doctors at the Palo Alto Medical Foundation report that teens use drugs for a variety of reasons, and that parents should heed the warning signs of possible depression, lack of self-esteem or cry for attention.
Step 1
Spend time with your teen and insert yourself into his life. Reports in "Psychology Today" show that teens often turn to drugs to self-medicate because they feel bad about themselves due to lack of parental attention. Parents who are too busy may inadvertently be adding to the problem. Psychologists recommend regular required family dinners to stay in touch with your teen.
Step 2
Explain the risks of smoking marijuana. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, risks to teens include a lowering of the sperm count in males, which can manifest in less hair growth and thinner muscles mass, while affecting their voice as it changes. Teenage girls can experience interruptions of their menstrual cycle, which can lead to infertility.
Step 3
Tell them about the long-term effects that are well documented, including damage to the heart and lungs, as well as cancer. Long-term pot smoking leaves users with poor memory function and a psychological addiction to the drug that can be difficult to overcome. Ask your pediatrician to verify the information you've presented to your teen.
Step 4
Introduce your teen to adults or older teens who have had experience with drugs. When teens hear about the consequences from someone who has lived through them, they often take the problems more seriously.
Step 5
Offer rewards such as trips and money to your teen if she stays clean. Punishments if she is caught using pot can include grounding and taking away privileges such as driving and computer time. Remain firm on the consequences so that the teen will be more likely to comply.
Step 6
Purchase a home drug test kit from a company such as Drug Test Your Teen (see Resources). Coupled with the rewards and punishment you've advised your teen about, you can back up your words with science. The tests are easily done with a urine test that you can monitor.
Tips and Warnings
- Clean your own house first. Teens often mimic drug use they've seen in the home and among family friends. Parents teach best by example. It also is difficult to tell your teens to stop doing something that you continue to practice.
- Get help if you don't have any success getting your teen to stop smoking pot. Religious or lay counselors, treatment centers and other support groups are available to assist. Sometimes bringing in outside help is the best thing you can for your child.
