The booklet first emphasizes the importance of consistency in parenting, along with the provision of structure that makes clear to kids what is expected of them. Structure involves setting limits (such as the length of time for a phone call) and specifying consequences for not conforming to the limits. Guidance for parents is provided for clothing selection, kids' use of the phone and television, and the development of responsibility. Early warning signs of teen depression are also listed, including negative changes in personal habits, a decline in school achievement, loss of interest in activities that once gave pleasure, moodiness, and the use of alcohol or other drugs. Separate sections of the booklet address suicide, alcohol abuse, and drug abuse. Symptoms of possible teen chemical dependency are listed under the categories of family, friends, religion, school, law violations, physical-psychological, and miscellaneous. The booklet concludes with a list of typical parents' excuses in denying their adolescent's chemical dependence.