TIPS
Methamphetamine:
Facts For Parents - Risk Factors
Sue Brown, Extension Educator
Marilyn Fox, Extension Educator
University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension
Methamphetamine is a powerful addictive synthetic drug with a high potential for drug abuse and dependence. One of the most effective ways to prevent drug abuse is by focusing on youth. Research shows that a person who can make it to the age of 21 without ever using drugs is more likely to never use them.
Risk factors for youth occur in all four domains of human interaction: family, individual/peers, school, and community. The most powerful protective factor in all four domains is bonding.
Children who are attached to positive families, friends, schools and communities, and who are committed to achieving the goals valued by these groups are less likely to develop problems in adolescence. Studies of successful children who live in high-risk neighborhoods or situations indicate that strong bonds with a caregiver can keep children from getting into trouble.
Children must be given opportunities to contribute to their family, peers, school and community. The challenge is to provide children with meaningful opportunities that help them feel responsible and significant.
Children must be taught the skills necessary to effectively take advantage of the opportunities they are provided. If they don’t have the necessary skills to be successful, they will experience frustration and/or failure. Children must also be recognized and acknowledged for their efforts. This gives them incentive to contribute and reinforces their skillful performance.
Ask yourself the following questions:
Do I spend time in positive conversation with my child?
Am I actively involved in my child’s life?
Do we eat family meals together?
Do I set clear limits on my child’s behavior?
Am I consistent in my enforcement of discipline?
If you answered no to any of the above questions, start working to make it yes and to improve your relationship with your child. For more ideas on how to protect your family from dangers associated with meth, call your local Cooperative Extension office and request the NebFact: "Fighting Methamphetamine in Nebraska: Strategies for Individuals and Communities" and other related materials.
Sources: Drug Abuse in America - Rural Meth, Trends Alert, March 2004 by Pilar Kraman, The council of State Governments http://www.csg.org/CSG/Prodcuts/trends+alerts/default.htm
Nebraska Partners in Prevention Evidence-based Planning toolkit
