Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens

243: How Do I Talk with My Teen About Alcohol and Weed?

Oct 28, 2025
Navigating conversations about alcohol and marijuana with teens can be daunting. Experts discuss the importance of starting these talks early, ideally in seventh grade, while focusing on safety over judgment. They unpack how parents' own substance use can influence their kids’ perceptions. Listeners learn about the risks associated with high-potency marijuana and the complexities of edibles. Practical strategies are offered, including allowing kids to deflect peer pressure using 'parental excuses' to keep communication open and supportive.
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INSIGHT

Modern Marijuana Is Far More Potent

  • Today's marijuana is 7–10 times more potent than decades ago and researchers are restarting their models.
  • Dr. Lisa Damour warns that stronger THC likely increases harm to the developing brain.
ANECDOTE

Talk Before Teens Already Decide

  • Lisa recalls a person who had sex for years before their parents had the birds-and-bees talk.
  • She uses it to argue for getting ahead of sensitive topics before behaviors start.
ADVICE

Open By Asking What They Know

  • Start conversations by asking, "What do you know about alcohol and weed?" to avoid a lecture.
  • Preface the talk with why it's coming up so kids don't ask, "Why now?"
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