Power of Parents

How to Talk to Your Teen About Alcohol and Cannabis

United States – October 29, 2026 -- Parents have more sway over teen drinking than many assume: 74% of teens say their parents are the biggest influence on whether they drink alcohol. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) built its Power of Parents program around that finding, with conversation tools for caregivers.

One in three teens mixes alcohol with other drugs

Studies cited by MADD show that 1 in 3 teens combine alcohol with other substances such as cannabis, nicotine and other stimulants. On those occasions they experience 2 to 3 times more consequences. MADD calls all of these harms preventable.

67% of Teens Don't Drink: How Parents Can Use That Fact

United States – October 27, 2026 -- Two out of three teens are not drinking alcohol, according to studies cited by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), and parents can use that fact to counter the belief that "everyone's doing it." MADD's Power of Parents program offers conversation starters and practical tools for talking with teens about alcohol, drugs and safety.

Teens overestimate how much their peers drink

Perceived norms drive behavior, and many teens assume their peers drink more than they do. MADD suggests asking curious questions, such as what teens actually do on a typical weekend and whether everyone is really drinking. Comparing those assumptions with the statistics helps parent and teen see the real picture.

Today's Cannabis Is Far Stronger. Here's How to Talk to Teens

United States – October 27, 2026 -- Cannabis sold in legal-sale states in 2023 contains 25-90% THC, compared with roughly 2-4% before 1990, so parents who tried it in their youth may be thinking of a very different drug. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is urging parents to update their conversations with teens through its Power of Parents program.

Potency has jumped by more than 100 times

MADD says the difference can be over 100-fold. Its comparison: if beer had strengthened the same way, one beer today would equal more than 20 beers in 1990. Beer potency, by contrast, has changed very little because of strong regulation.