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***Help your adolescent avoid drugs*** Many teenagers experiment with drugs, putting their health and safety at risk — but adolescent drug abuse isn't inevitable. You can help prevent adolescent drug abuse by talking to your adolescent about the consequences of using drugs and the importance of making healthy choices. Why teenagers abuse drugs— Various factors may contribute to adolescent drug abuse, from insecurity and self-doubt to a desire for social acceptance. Teenagers often feel indestructible and may not consider the consequences of their actions, leading them to take potentially dangerous risks — such as abusing legal or illegal drugs. Common risk factors for adolescent drug abuse include: A family history of substance abuse Depression Drug availability Early aggressive behavior Feelings of social rejection Lack of parental supervision Low self-esteem Poverty Consequences of adolescent drug abuse— Adolescent drug abuse can have a number ...

It's not unusual for kids -- especially those in their "terrible twos" and early teens -- to defy authority every now and then. They may express their defiance by arguing, disobeying, or talking back to their moms and dads, teachers, or other adults. When this behavior lasts longer than six months and is excessive compared to what is usual for the youngster's age, it may mean that the child has a type of behavior disorder called Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). ODD is a condition in which a youngster displays an ongoing pattern of uncooperative, defiant, hostile, and annoying behavior toward people in authority. The child's behavior often disrupts the child's normal daily activities, including activities within the family and at school. Many kids and adolescents with ODD also have other behavioral problems, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, learning disabilities, mood disorders (such as depression), and anxiety disorders. Some ...

"My 13-year-old daughter has been acting-up quite a lot at school - especially in the lunch room. She has had 3 referrals in just the last week and may get suspended if she gets any more this month. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks." While kids can display a wide range of behavior problems in school, from disruptive talking in the classroom to fighting and name-calling on the playground, the reasons for bad behavior are usually simple. If your daughter is acting out a lot in school, my assumption is either that she's having strong feelings and needs a hand with getting those feelings out, or that something in school is really not working for her. As a parent, you can do a number of things at home to help your child deal with her feelings. You can also change the situation in school so your child has a better time there. How to help your child at school: Assess the situation— Start by spending time in your daughter's classroom (volunteer as an...