A survey of 87 mothers and their children who abused drugs found that mothers' reactions included expressing concern, providing arguments against drug use, withdrawing privileges or threatening punishment, and arguing. Problem behaviors mothers noticed in their children included aloofness, rule-breaking, lack of respect, and difficult communications. The youth generally reported negative parental perceptions of their behaviors. These results are indicative of a degree of family misunderstanding and conflict. In confronting the drug abusing juvenile, parents should be honest, open, and discuss the pros and cons of drug use and their concerns over the use. Because of the ambivalent feelings about adolescent children, feelings of guilt, and self-blame, parental self-help groups can facilitate parents' response to the drug-abusing offspring. In addition, parents should familiarize themselves with what is known about adolescent drug use and drug effects, as well as the role of family factors in adolescent drug use. Adolescent-parent interactions can be enhanced by careful listening, adoption of a compassionate attitude, firmness, and positive parenting. 28 references.