The Missing Soldier in the Drug War
Abstract
This research paper addresses the need for parents to take a central role in the fight against drug abuse. A holistic approach is needed to win this battle, as reductions in both supply and demand are needed. To reduce the demand for illegal drugs the conflict must be shaped to fully engage parents, for they are the foot soldiers who will ultimately win the battle. As such, the scope of this paper is limited to looking at the drug conflict from the viewpoint of demand reduction and the involvement of parents, families, teachers, pastors, businessmen, and other community members in reducing the demand. Drug prevention and drug treatment/rehabilitation are the two primary elements of demand reduction. To be successful in either area, parents must be actively involved in shaping the attitudes of youth against drug abuse and condemning the tolerance of illegal drugs in society. Parents, whose children's health and safety are at risk, are the ones who have the biggest stake in the battle to protect their children from the evils of drug abuse. Parents have the energy and the desire to fight drug abuse, they just need solid national leadership to show them the way. In the 1980s, significant gains were made against drug abuse, primarily as a result of highly organized and engaged parents working in community coalitions. In the 1990s, the fight shifted more to actions by government agencies with less than satisfactory results. Now is the time to reshape the battle to win back the hearts and minds of the American people and have them defeat drug abuse in every community across the country.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 28, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA464452
Entities
People
- C. S. Gordon
Organizations
- Marine Corps War College