For Parents

A Parent's Guide on Talking to Your College-Bound Student about Drinking

Grad with parentA Time of Transition

This is a time of continual transition. Your student has been admitted and will be, or has been, living independently and now they are home. Transitioning your relationship with a mostly-adult child is challenging in the best of times. During the past several years, you have helped your teen build a strong foundation for good decision-making and self-sufficiency. So, how do you handle this phase of letting-go and help prepare your teen as he as she moves on to college life? This new role for you as a parent involves continuing the dialog with your student about life, responsibility, and healthy decision-making.

Parent and grad embracingCollege Life

Students who choose to attend college will find the experience one that will provide fond memories and lasting friendships. During the college years, your son or daughter will grow socially and intellectually as they set personal and professional goals. However, it is important to know that things have changed on college campuses over the years - today's college students are making healthier decisions than their parents did

Grad & parent

Making Healthy Choices

Most college students drink moderately, if at all. In fact, many national studies report that college drinking is at record low levels. While some have been quick to report extreme behaviors of college students, the truth is, these behaviors are rare. The best kept secret regarding college students and drinking is that very few cause significant harm to themselves or others. Sharing and discussing these "true norms" with your son or daughter will help prepare your student to continue making healthy choices during the college years.

Six Communication Guidelines

1. Continue the Dialog

Continue to discuss drinking with your student so he or she can continue to make smart choices. If you notice problematic behaviors open the door to a dialogue about their experiences.

2. Create Shared Expectations

Set goals for your student's performance, both academically and socially. There should also be consequences if goals are not met. While they are “mostly adult,” students appreciate and need clear and consistent boundaries around certain behaviors.

3. Know and Respect the Law

Understand the penalties for underage and/or abusive drinking and share then with your student. Help them to recognize that they can and will be held accountable for unlawful activities.

4. Focus on "True Norms"

Let your student know that the majority of college students do not abuse alcohol. Moderate or infrequent drinking is the "true norm." Also, be open to hearing their experiences and perceptions.

5. Share the Facts

Students already understand the effects of alcohol. Share with them responsible drinking tips they can use when they are of legal age. Also share ways they can help their friends who may be abusing alcohol. Talk to them about the negative consequences they—or others—have experienced.

6. Take Advantage of Campus Resources

Encourage your student to take advantage of the various services and resources their college or university offers, especially if you suspect they or their friends are abusing alcohol. We are still here offering support.

 

If you feel that your student may have an issue with misuse of drugs or alcohol they can reach out to Mustangs for Recovery at recovery@calpoly.edu to chat with a peer or professional staff about their use in a safe and nonjudgmental space.

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