Friends, family, and the media are huge influences on whether someone starts to use tobacco. How is family such a powerful influence on teens?

parents forbid them not to smoke
teens and children watch and often copy what their parents do
parents explain the consequences of smoking thoroughly
parents let their teen make their own choices to learn consequences

1 answer

Family is a powerful influence on teens when it comes to tobacco use because parents play a crucial role in setting boundaries and expectations for their children. If parents forbid their children from smoking and clearly communicate the dangers and consequences of tobacco use, teens are more likely to refrain from trying it. Additionally, children often look up to and emulate the behaviors of their parents, so if parents do not smoke, their children are less likely to start smoking themselves. On the other hand, if parents are smokers, their children may be more likely to see smoking as a normal or acceptable behavior and may be more inclined to experiment with tobacco themselves. Ultimately, the relationship between parents and their children plays a significant role in shaping teens' attitudes and behaviors towards tobacco use.