Having a conversation with teenagers about their use of drugs is a problematic matter. I am a substance abuse counselor, and have been at Gallup High School in New Mexico for the past two years. I make presentations on the abuse of drugs, and the direct and indirect effects that result. I also do individual and group counseling with students…

Contains a listing and brief discussion of numerous interrelated psychosocial issues which appear to be necessary for a thorough drug education program. While admittedly biased, these topics appear to be among the main ones currently identified in the field. The issues addressed may provide fresh insights or stimulate fruitful discussion. (BH)

Considers role of sociological perspective in drug education curriculum. Examines sociological perspective from broad foci of structure and process; with each focus, examples of sociological approach to drug use are offered. Sample course outline for "Drugs and Society" is presented, suggesting ways in which sociological issues discussed could…

Major weaknesses with respect to planning, development, implementation, and evaluation of school drug education programs are identified. Recommendations are offered. (Author/MT)

First of a three-part series points out that concern about the physical addiction of drugs has caused society to overlook the disastrous aspect of psychological need or habituation. The use of alcohol along with other drugs results in a multiplying effect that can be fatal. (MLF)

Notes that health education was incorporated into public schools in 1800s to teach evils of alcohol and other drugs. Suggests that purpose, although expanded and modified, continues today. Sees teaching methods as sophisticated and diverse to accommodate needs and personalities of students. Cites components of successful drug education programs.…

Contends that isolated training programs, role confusion, and adherence to differing philosophies of the etiology and treatment of alcohol and other drug problems contribute to different philosophies of treatment and disparate priorities. Notes that any attempt to reform health care system must include attending to quality of training and…

This booklet is designed to educate parents about marijuana so that they can communicate with their children in a way that will prevent drug abuse. The information is presented in a question/answer format. The following 25 questions are addressed: What is marijuana? What are the current slang terms for marijuana? How is marijuana used? How many…

Drug policy that defines drug use as a social problem is at an impasse between prevention and minimization of harm. Drug education models tend to stereotype drug use and exaggerate its effects. The conflicting perspectives presented allow youth culture to counter official drug prevention messages. (SK)

Some well-meaning federal health and medical educational activities are unrealistic and overzealous. Drug education curricula should address issues such as self-esteem, decision making, assertion skills, stress reduction, recreational activities, and factual information. (CB)

Asserts that the use and abuse of drugs is prevalent in high schools and is becoming increasingly popular with much younger children, and that elementary school is the place to begin the attack on alcohol and drug abuse. Describes components of successful drug and alcohol education and prevention programs and discusses the implementation of…

Pathography is defined as a personal account of illness written by the patient, a friend or relative. The authors advocate the use of patient pathography as an additional or alternative teaching tool for the medical history record. (Author/JM)

States that, although sociologists have made contributions to the drug abuse research literature, they have been absent in the formulation of drug policy. Argues that sociologists should take a pragmatic approach, using the tools of their science within the context of existing policy, to reduce drug abuse and thereby limit the need for punitive…

Having witnessed drug use, idleness, and dangerous driving, a parent urges school officials to encourage neighborhood vigilance, follow up on leads, use dogs to sniff out drugs, suspend hard cases, expose second offenders to drug victims in local hospitals, and provide students with positive role models and career goals. (PB)

Mrs. Reagan discusses effects of drug use among teenagers and offers suggestions to teachers, parents, and students for combating drug abuse. She stresses parent involvement and the formation of parent peer groups, as well as teachers' responsibilities. (NJ)