It's normal for teenagers to feel pressure about smoking from their friends and classmates. Every day, approximately 3,450 children between the age of 12 and 17 smoke a cigarette for the first time, according to the Centers for Disease Conrol and Prevention in the article "Smoking and Tobacco Use." Your job is to teach your teen the risks of smoking, then hope she makes the right decision.
Teen Smoking Statistics
As of 2009, 17.2 percent of high school students and 5.2 percent of middle school students identified themselves as cigarette smokers, according to the CDC. More than 80 percent of individuals who are smokers start smoking before the age of 18, according to the CDC. Smoking is highly addictive and may become a lifelong habit. The CDC says teens who smoke are also more likely to try other high-risk activities like drinking alcohol and having sex.
Health Risks
Before you preach to your child about the dangers of smoking, learn the facts. Smoking is the cause of approximately 1/5 of deaths in the United States, according to KidsHealth in the article "Smoking." Smoking causes fatal illnesses like lung cancer and emphysema. It may also increase your likelihood of developing osteoporosis. Smoking causes yellow teeth, yellow skin, reduces athleticism in sports and other physical activities and increases your risk of developing colds and the flu.
Teaching Your Teen About Smoking
Even if you think your teen doesn't listen to you, he may be listening more than you think. If you smoke, quit smoking as soon as possible. Your teen may look up to you and may be more likely to smoke if cigarettes are available in the house. Although your teen may think everyone smokes, inform him that most people -- approximately 82.8 percent of high schoolers -- do not smoke, according to the CDC.
Catching Your Teen Smoking
If you find cigarettes in your teen's room, notice that she smells like smoke or see her smoking with her friends, don't ignore it. Tell your teen that you know she smokes and that you disapprove, but don't threaten her or scold her. Instead, remind her of the risks of smoking and try to figure out the root cause of why your teen is smoking, recommends MayoClinic.com in the article "Teen Smoking: 10 Ways to Help Teens Stay Smoke-Free." Brainstorm ways for your teen to say no to her friends when they smoke or talk about other friends your teen could hang out with who will not pressure her to smoke.
