Abstract:
The purposes of this study were (1) to assess the usage of substances by 2,125 youth (grades 4-12) in rural Indiana and (2) to explore the differences in perceptions between these students and their parents regarding the students' use of substances. While all parents believed that some students were using cigarettes, alcohol, and marijuana, they seriously underestimated the percentage of students in their child's grade who reported the use of a variety of substances (especially alcohol) by themselves and their peers. If parents are to be allies in the fight against drugs, it is imperative that they be aware of the severity of the problem.