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Rudy Ruggles, Editor
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Thursday, 22 October 2009 00:00 |
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Sex, alcohol, drugs . . . These are subjects many adults would just as soon not discuss with young people. But if parents and other caring adults don't step up and talk to young people about these things, who will? Make it easy for young people to come to you and talk about the temptations in their lives. Avoid judging. Listen, and educate. Restraint is one of the most important of Search Institute's 40 Developmental Assets.
From the survey of Ridgefield High School students, there is a low level of restraint to begin with and a dramatic decrease in restraint with each succeeding class. Among Freshmen, only 35 per cent believe it's important not to be sexually active or to use alcohol or other drugs, and this falls to a mere 12 per cent by Senior year. The question clearly arises from the low level of restraint among Freshmen, what is the level among Middle School students?
Communicating with young people about the risks of sex, use of alcohol or other drugs is important. Labeling them as bad is not necessarily helpful. Instead, explain the dangers: having sex can lead to pregnancy and disease; using alcohol or other drugs causes you to lose control over your functions, which can lead to serious, even fatal, accidents; substance use can also damage the developing teenage brain. Work with young people to focus on long-term outcomes-not just on the moment. Helping them to internalize and stand up for their personal values also makes it easier for them to practice restraint and withstand negative peer pressure. If they do get in trouble with these issues, though, make sure they know they can come to you for help. Let them know you're here for them - no matter what.
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