Live Life Team
Peer pressure can cause teens to do a number of things that give parents pause. One of them is smoking cigarettes. Although parents may suspect, they may be unable to prove that the child smokes – especially if the teen is not ready to admit it. There are several signs that parents need to look for if they think their teenager is smoking.
One of the most obvious is that the child has friends that smoke. They may use this excuse to explain why their own clothing and hair smells like cigarette smoke – yet another sign. Hair acts as a magnet and attracts smoke quickly. The smell can be masked by hair products, so teens may use more than they did previously. Extra strong perfumes or hair sprays are another sign of a smoking teen.
A teen that finds excuses to go outside more than necessary may be sneaking a few cigarettes as well. Also, if the teenager suddenly begins leaving a window open in the bedroom, it may be an attempt to let smoke out to keep from being caught. If a parent finds a lighter or matches in the teen’s room or hidden outside, there is reason to suspect that the teen is smoking. Unexplained holes in clothing or bedding may also be a sign.
If a parent suspects a teen of smoking, the problem should be addressed in a way that does not make them feel afraid to tell the truth. Parents need be prepared to educate their teens about the harmful effects smoking has on the body. If caught early, teen smoking can be halted before it becomes a habit.
