Don’t stop being a parent just because pot is legal

Q: Now that pot is legalized, our son is trying to convince me he should be allowed to smoke in the house and we shouldn’t worry. What would you recommend?

A: Pot is here to stay, but it doesn’t mean it is not harmful. Of the harmful effects, typically from more regular use, the issues are apathy (amotivational syndrome), impacts on relationships and responsibilities — and for some, usually associated with higher levels of use — psychosis.

While some folks will argue that if there are harmful effects, they are less so than from alcohol use. However, harmful is harmful.

Given we are talking about your home and, even if your son pays rent, you still get to determine the rules for what goes on there.

This is not to say you can necessarily control whether your son smokes pot anywhere else. And as with any parenting issue, we refer to setting limits, boundaries and expectations.

The legalization of pot has nothing to do with changing your parenting, it just provides another issue for parents to manage.

I suggest that you avoid getting caught up in his arguments in favour of his desires. They have nothing to do with the limits, boundaries and expectations you set for the use of pot in your home. These forever remain your choice, just as smoking remains his.

If he continues to smoke in a worrisome manner, certainly do share your concerns with him. If this is not enough to address them, consider seeking professional advice.

Pot is here to stay.

Like alcohol, it will create parenting, relationship, marital and family issues.

Do discuss. Do let your views be known. Do seek peaceful resolutions to any concerns. And do seek help if necessary.

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