Parents have always exerted a strong influence on the behavior of their children, and many researchers in the fields of medicine and psychology have attempted to explain the etiology of drug use by young people and the important role of parents in children's drug use decisions. Parents need guidelines to develop their own personal programs of primary prevention and to help their children decide against drug use. Guidelines are presented that focus on developing decision-making skills among children, giving and receiving love, creating a positive self-image, perceived and demonstrated caring, and possessing accurate knowledge about drugs. Parents need to recognize they cannot protect their children against all of life's frustrations. Time, patience, courage, and determination may be the necessary ingredients in creating a positive future for children and young people. 12 references