$Unique_ID{BRK00760}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Can a Parent Know if Their Teenager is Using Marijuana?}
$Subject{smoke marijuana smoking effects Community Social child care
withdrawal irritability academic performance Changes friends diminishing
memory drug abuse}
$Volume{Q-23,S-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Can a Parent Know if Their Teenager is Using Marijuana?


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QUESTION:  I have read your frequent answers about cocaine and other substance
abuse, but I have never seen anything in your column about marijuana.  Does
that mean you approve?  Is there any way a concerned parent can figure out if
their teenager is using this drug?

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ANSWER:  I most certainly do not approve of the use of marijuana, any other
drug, or even medications in an abusive fashion.  I think you know that but
were just prodding me a bit so that I would include the answer to the rest of
your question in my column.  And I bit, so here goes.  Watch your teenager
closely for signs of withdrawal from usual social activity and increased
irritability.  Is school work slacking off, with academic performance
dropping?  Noticed any reduced control, as seen in actions that might increase
the risk of bodily injury or recent fall-ins with the law because of driving
infractions or other car accidents?  These may be the first clues that
something is amiss.  Changes in friends, with the old standbys disappearing
while newer faces take their places, might indicate that your youngster is now
in with the "wrong crowd".  If his memory for recent events is diminishing and
you sense that his thinking processes are changing, and giving way to a
lackadaisical attitude, it may be time for you to take some action.  Your
family physician may assist and aid you with some specific tests to confirm
suspicions, with the proper handling and referral for treatment, of a
situation that you may not be able to deal with yourself.  Stay calm but
remain firm in your resolution to do something about it, if your suspicions
can be confirmed.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.