New drug test for parents fails to address the value of communication

A new urine drug test, aimed at parents of teenagers, fails to address the real need of parents to develop strong channels of communication with their children.

Resorting to drug testing is the best way to destroy a relationship with a teenager. What happens after the test, whether positive or negative? What happens to the relationship if a false positive is produced by the test? What are the guidelines for communication?

This is an irresponsible product, which will leave parents stranded in their attempt to address a very important concern. Drug testing offers a false hope for parents.

The company, Proveit, is peddling a time bomb set to destroy the already delicate balance of the parent/youth relationship.

Parents Centre responded to the launch of this new product declaring it to be an affront to good parenting. Good parenting starts with antenatal education and never stops. The teenage years present their own challenges, including issues around the availability and use of drugs. Good parenting includes discussion, rather than suspicious or simply laying down the law.

For those teenagers who have chosen to break the law, finding ways to dodge a urine test or produce a false sample are not going to resolve the situation; and will only aggravate a challenging relationship.

Parents who are concerned by potential or actual drug use should seek guidance in how to best discuss their concerns with their son or daughter.

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