Parents and substance abuse prevention: Current state and future challenges

Abstract

The purpose of the current review is to provide an updated portrayal of current knowledge concerning the role of the family in children and youth's substance abuse prevention. A review of the literature highlights the notion that incorporating parental involvement in youth's substance abuse prevention is highly accepted. Accordingly, many programs have been developed incorporating parental involvement, some of which are internationally popular. While there is evidence that these parent-focused programs have significant utility, several topics still need further elaboration including: What is the best timing (in terms of children's age) for parental engagement in the process of preventing children's substance abuse? What new paths can be identified for intervention? How can family' participation be fostered? And especially, how can a balance be reached between generic principals of positive parenting and appropriate, local and sensitive, ways to implement them among non-western populations?.