Rocket Science: Involved Parents Reduce Teen Smoking
Thursday, April 15, 2010 - 11:00
in Psychology & Sociology
New research conducted by Cardiff University scientists suggests that good parenting is still the best way to prevent teenage smoking. The three-year-study of 3,500 11 to 15 year-olds found that children whose fathers regularly talk with them about 'things that matter' are less likely to take up smoking during early adolescence. The findings were presented today at the British Psychological Society's Annual Conference. Only children who had never smoked at the time the study began took part. As well as their smoking, children were also asked about the frequency of parental communication, arguments with family members and the frequency of family meals - none which had a significant effect on smoking. read more