Is there research or professional opinion that supports the use of behavior contracts?
MK: Yes. The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University reported in their sixth annual national teen substance abuse survey that parents who are “‘hands-on’ parents who have established a household culture of rules and expectations for their teens’ behavior raise children who are less at risk of smoking, drinking and using drugs.” In addition, they said “Contrary to conventional wisdom, teens in ‘hands-on’ households are more likely to have an excellent relationship with their parents than teens with ‘hands-off’ parents.” The survey concluded that, “parents should be parents to their teenagers, not pals.” La Rae G. Moncada, a licensed marriage, family and child counselor, said, “I think contracts are a great idea. In fact, I encourage them in my practice.” iP: What are the most important things to keep in mind when using behavior contracts? MK: Parents need to plan ahead, anticipate future areas of concern and write the rules BEFORE there is a proble
