Should I Drug Test My Child?

Should I Drug Test My Child?: To the dismay of parents, drugs are becoming increasingly prevalent in today’s society. These days, a child does not have to look far to figure out where or how to get drugs. 

Their classmates bring them to school and to the movies, and, unfortunately, it is harder to find a kid who has not been exposed to drugs than one who has. Below are 5 reasons why you should test your child for drugs:

1)       It will start the conversation

While initiating the “drug talk” with your child may seem awkward, getting the first one out of the way will make the rest of them easier. Some kids even have questions about drugs that they are afraid to ask, it may make them seem guilty. By approaching it in a non-accusatory way, it may actually open the door for a healthy parent-child rapport on the subject.

2)       It will establish a precedence

In addition to starting a conversation, asking your child for a drug test will set boundaries. This is a way for kids to know what is and is not okay, and it allows for an establishment of possible consequences. This drug test can also be a reminder of who is in charge at home.  This could be a means of regaining control over an out-of-control household, or simply preventing one.

3)       It will show them you care

Although some kids will think that drug-testing them means you don’t trust them, it also almost always shows that you care. This concern indicates the personal investment you have for your child’s well-being, and he or she will come to terms with that eventually. As long as you frame it in a way of interest rather than assumption, the fact that you care will not be in question.

4)       It will answer your questions

By not asking for the drug test, though, important questions are often left unanswered. This could lead to lying and sneaking around to avoid facing the truth. Rather than both of you living in fear of how much the other one knows, this drug test could be a way of eliminating the doubts. Even if it comes back positive, at least you know.

5)       It can be the difference

One of the most important reasons you should enforce the drug test is because of what could happen if you don’t. Especially if you are the type of parent who does not have a particularly open relationship with your child, not knowing could be the difference between life and death. Too many parents are blindsided by overdoses and unexpected deaths because they did not even know that their children were using drugs.

While drug testing your child does not ensure that the results will be what you want, it could make the results easier to handle. After all, you will be better prepared to deal with it if you know what “it” is. That being said, though, it is crucial to approach the situation in a loving way, so as not to strain your relationship. Showing genuine concern and helpfulness, while also keeping an open mind, are the best ways to make sure that your child and your relationship are both healthy.