Teens' Perception of Parental Cannabis Use Influences Their Own Attitudes

A recent study by Washington State University highlights that **teens who perceive their parents as cannabis users are more prone to view the drug favorably and consider trying it themselves**. Published in the Journal of Child and Family Studies, the research underscores the importance of parental monitoring and the closeness of parent-child relationships in shaping adolescents' views on cannabis. The study reveals notable gender-specific findings, such as the association between closeness to non-user mothers and decreased intentions to try cannabis, and the converse effect when mothers use the drug. For fathers, closeness tends to enhance positive attitudes towards cannabis, irrespective of their own use. Parental monitoring emerges as a protective factor, particularly for boys; those experiencing higher parental supervision expressed more negative attitudes toward cannabis. **The study stresses the need for parents to engage in open and honest discussions about cannabis, framing it as an adult decision with potential health risks.** Researchers aim to further investigate communication strategies between parents and teens concerning substance use, emphasizing the roles of parental warmth and closeness.