Coaching Refusal Skills

While most teens will scoff at the notion, it is vital that parents actually help teens role play how they will respond when placed in a compromising situation. “Before they head out the door to that party, tell them it’s your job as a parent to make sure they know what they will say if they are offered something they know they shouldn’t have.” In such a situation, the teen should be able to name the consequences (“If I get caught, I won’t be able to hang out with you anymore”), suggest an alternative (“How about if we go back to my house—I got a new Xbox game”), and leave the room with the door open for others to come along. Click here for more information on coaching refusal skills.