Despite state laws and university policies, exhortation and threats, the biggest social problem on most American campuses is illegal and unhealthy consumption of alcohol. Alcohol is a false, but common, stimulant to conversation and fun, a false, but common, antidote to perceived pressure. It all too often leads to injuries, aggressive behavior, and destruction of property.
Away from the structure of home, both sons and daughters may feel considerable pressure to drink. We hope you will talk with them about this and help prepare them to be strong about their own (and your) values. Some families (and most education programs) encourage sensible use of alcohol. Some families (and very few other societal institutions) encourage abstinence. While we ourselves are not teetotalers, we very much wish there were more social and ideological support on college campuses for those who choose abstinence. We are encouraged, though, by the development of more on-campus (and therefore alcohol-free) late-night events sponsored by various groups. Having options such as these means that the abstinent college student does not have to take an ideological stand each weekend, that he or she can have a social life without feeling the pressure to consume something to which he or she is opposed.