Pubdate: Fri, 24 Jul 1998
Source: San Jose Mercury News (CA) 
Contact:  
Website: http://www.sjmercury.com/

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

BOREDOM LEADS TO DRUG USE

I agree with the experts who say that providing alternate activities and
drug treatment for children is a better approach than the current anti-drug
ad campaign (Page 6A, July 10).

I am a 19-year-old woman born and raised in San Jose. Based on my own
experiences, I believe children start using drugs because they are bored.
It's not because parents don't talk them about it; it's because there is
nothing to do. After going to a movie, playing pool or bowling, you are out
of ideas, and this is where drugs come in. They offer something different
and exciting.

Until the government gives kids fun and different activities to fill their
time, the use of drugs by kids will never go away. Parents also need to know
that just because they talk to their children and make them aware of the
horrors of drugs, this in no way guarantees their children won't become
involved with drugs.

- -- Audrey Lanward

San Jose

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Checked-by: Melodi Cornett