Identifying Signs of Abuse
December 9th, 2008 by Perry
Aimed at parents, eHow has put together a list that might help them identify signs of potential drug abuse. Although parents are the main focus, this could also be used by anyone who is concerned about a friend or relative.
Communication will always be the number one way to find out. When approached directly, there are many techniques addicts will use to deflect the question; subject switching, instant combativeness or feigning ignorance. The trick is to not start the conversation off in an accusatory tone, as that instantly puts the person you’re worried about in a defensive position and will make them question your true intentions.
With that said, the article wisely cautions against jumping to any conclusions:
Don’t jump to conclusions. Virtually everything listed in this article are normal phases when growing up. You’re looking for combinations. Use sound judgement and trust your instincts.
In almost every scenario, except parenting, the hardest part for a friend or relative showing concern is whether or not it’s their job to become involved in the first place. You must always weigh the safety and concern factor versus trust and friendship, all of which may be jeopardized.
Obviously, lists like these are a start and possible help, but there is no simple way to approach someone you’re worried about. Try to be understanding and see where it goes from there.
Third Grader Arrested on Suspicion-Based Drug Testing Policy
October 21st, 2008 by Alex
This is some troubling shit.
A third grader at Muldown Elementary School was one of the first students arrested in the school district’s new suspicion-based drug testing policy. At first glance, I thought this was going to be another case of drug prevention gone wrong… until I read the article.
This 3rd grader smoked pot in the bathroom of his elementary school, asked classmates if they wanted to smoke, and finally confessed after being confronted with his ditched pipe. Considering the confession was “reasonable suspicion,” he was tested and suspended for 3 days.
The odd thing is, after the reasonable suspicion exists, parents aren’t required to give consent for drug tests on a child - the schoolboard can go ahead no matter what.
I don’t know whether to be surprised or depressed about 3rd graders smoking weed in school. In my opinion, it seems more than ridiculous that an elementary school needs a drug testing policy, but that’s just a sad statement on current society.
Instead, I think it’s time to recommend a suspicion-based parent sterilization program, but that’s just me.
Florida Couple to Share Shitbag of the Month Award
October 17th, 2008 by Perry
It takes a lot to offend me, but leaving out your bag of weed so your 18-month old child can wander in and eat from it, is wrong on a lot of levels.
Who does that? Way to take every negative stoner stereotype, magnify it by ten and then get on national news for everyone in the country to see. How dim does that poor kid’s future look? When I saw the mugshots of his parents, the first thing I thought was relief that the baby didn’t find any meth.
