The Internet and Drugs

Many parents are overwhelmed with the explosion of information on the Internet. Because anyone can post virtually anything, there are many Web sites as well as bogus sites in cyberspace. Some adults are quite comfortable surfing the Web for information. Others are more timid. For the timid, here are some guidelines to determine whether a site is reliable. It’s not as hard as one may think to determine the reliability of an Internet source.

Of course, the Internet isn’t the only source of information. There are many good books available. Before relying on one, research the author. (The title “Dr.” alone isn’t a guarantee that he/she is knowledgeable.) What are her/his credentials? Who has provided endorsements?

Drugs in the Media

Renee Hobbs, professor at both the School of Communications and the College of Education at Temple University in Philadelphia, is a leading authority on media education. Media literacy helps teens ask questions so that they can understand the difference between reality and fantasy. Please visit the.Medic’s website and Media Literacy Segment Four on prescription drugs for more details.

According to the federal Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, “As youth enter adolescence, the media help them define who they are, who they want to become, and the nature of their world.” In its publication, Media Sharp: Analyzing Tobacco and Alcohol Messages, they discuss the mythical images of alcohol and tobacco use as portrayed by the media. The message is that drug use is normal, acceptable and even desirable. While the article focuses on alcohol and tobacco, the message is relevant for all types of drug use and abuse. Because media often glamorizes the use of drugs, it is important to teach your children the difference between what they see in the media and the real world. Even the so-called “reality” shows do not often depict life as it really is. You must help your child become savvy to the dangers of drug abuse that are too often not depicted in the movies, TV, video games or magazines.

1. Look at the URL (“Universal Resource Locator” or, Internet address). If it ends “.gov” then it is a government site and it should be reliable.

2. URLs ending in “.edu” are education sites. When you see those, find out what educational institution sponsors the site. Is it a reputable college or university? This information is most likely good.

3. Look for sites sponsored by major hospitals or medical organizations such as the American Medical Association (AMA).

4. When you come upon a site whose sponsor you cannot identify, click on the “About Us” link. That will tell you what groups and/or individuals are responsible for the information on the site.

5. Finally, look for similar information on multiple sites.

Related Articles

What Parents Should Know About Teen Prescription Drug Abuse

The Internet and Drugs - You are here!

What do Your Children Know, or Think they Know?

What Should Parents Do?