Parents have a new, unique, and controversial weapon to help them monitor - and possibly prevent - drug use among their kids: an at-home drug test that analyzes a strand of the child's hair.

"Stores like Discount Drug Mart sell the drug testing kit for $59.99 and they've already been successful selling urine test kits... [Paul] Coleman [CEO of Maryhaven, a private nonprofit comprehensive healthcare facility that treats people with alcohol and drug dependencies] said there can be a delicate balance of trust within a household - bond that can be broken if not approached correctly."

At-home drug tests should be a last resort, and should be used only if the family is already working with a licensed counselor. And ultimately, Coleman says, no test can take the place of open communication and parent who trusts his instincts. Source: NBC4i (Columbus, OH)

Labels: privacy, drug_testing

Posted By: Aspen Education Group