Published: 11:44 PM, 21 September 2026
Parental Guidance Is a Huge Obligation to Stop Drug Abuse Among Children
Mohammad Rafiquzzaman
Drug abuse has become a serious social concern in Bangladesh, particularly because children and young people are increasingly exposed to different forms of harmful substances and unhealthy influences. Although law enforcement agencies, educational institutions and social organizations have important roles to play in preventing drug abuse, the first and most important line of protection for a child is the family. Proper parental guidance, care and supervision can play a huge role in keeping children away from drugs.
Children generally learn their first lessons about behaviour, responsibility and morality from their parents. A warm and supportive family environment can help a child develop confidence and make sensible decisions. On the other hand, neglect, excessive family conflict, poor communication and lack of supervision may leave children emotionally vulnerable. In such circumstances, some children may become influenced by friends or other people who encourage harmful habits.
In Bangladesh, the rapid growth of cities, changing family structures and increasing exposure to social media have created new challenges for parents. Many parents are busy with work and other responsibilities and may not always know how their children spend their leisure time or who their friends are. Sometimes parents focus heavily on academic results while paying insufficient attention to their children's emotional needs. This lack of communication can create distance between parents and children.
Therefore, parents should build a relationship in which children feel comfortable discussing their problems, fears and mistakes. Parents should listen patiently rather than responding immediately with anger or punishment. If a child feels that the family will understand and support them, they are more likely to seek parental help when facing pressure from friends or encountering drugs.
Parental supervision is also essential. Parents should know about their children's friends, daily activities and online interactions without unnecessarily violating their privacy. They should explain clearly why drugs are dangerous and discuss the physical, psychological, educational and social consequences of substance abuse. Simply telling children to “stay away from drugs” may not be enough. They need accurate information and practical guidance about how to refuse drugs when they face peer pressure.
Schools and colleges also have an important role in supporting families. Teachers can identify changes in students' behaviour, attendance or academic performance and communicate concerns to parents. Counselling services, awareness programs, sports and cultural activities can provide young people with healthier ways to spend their time and develop their talents.
Parents should also understand that prevention is more effective when it begins early. Children should be taught self-discipline, empathy, responsibility and healthy decision-making from an early age. Encouraging sports, reading, creativity and community activities can help young people develop positive interests and friendships.
At the same time, a child who has already developed a substance-use problem should not simply be treated as a criminal or a source of shame for the family. Such children need appropriate professional support, counselling, treatment and rehabilitation. Parents should seek qualified assistance rather than hiding the problem because of social stigma.
Drug abuse cannot be prevented by parents alone. Government agencies, schools, communities, healthcare professionals, media organizations and civil society must work together. Nevertheless, the family remains the child's first school and parents remain their earliest guides.
For Bangladesh, preventing drug abuse among children is not merely a law-and-order issue; it is an investment in the country's future. Loving supervision, honest communication, proper education and timely support can protect children from destructive influences. Every parent therefore has a huge obligation—not only to provide food, education and material support, but also to guide children towards a healthy, responsible and drug-free life.
Mohammad Rafiquzzaman
belongs to Department of
Finance and Banking, Green University Bangladesh, Dhaka.
