In this episode of The Good Parent, we have Dr. Shakuntala David in conversation with Shailja Dutt. Dr. David opens up about why 25% of Indian teenagers are experimenting with substances, what parents get wrong when they catch their teen, and the exact questions to ask instead of "why."
She shares real cases from Delhi, Mumbai, and Gurgaon from first experimentation to addiction and explains why boundaries explained are more powerful than rules announced.
The episode raises a question every parent quietly carries: is my teen's substance use a phase or a crisis?About the Guest:
Dr. Shakuntala David is a management trainer, family counselor, and life coach specializing in teenage behavior, family dynamics, and addiction. She works with families across India navigating substance abuse, peer pressure, and identity development in their teens.
What we discuss in this episode:
1.Why teenagers experiment with drugs and alcohol
2.What to do the first time you catch your teen using | ask "what," never "why"
3.How to talk about substance abuse at age 10-12 | before peer pressure hits
4.When experimentation becomes addiction | stages and warning signs
5.Teenage identity development | why it matters for preventionHow to build communication before crisis hits
About the Hosts:
Shailja Dutt is the Founder of Stellar Search & LimeLitt, an entrepreneur, mentor, and mother of two boys. Manoj Kohli is the former CEO of Airtel, a devoted father of two daughters, and a deeply involved grandfather.
Connect with The Good Parent:
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Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.in/podcasts/c6d53a2c-5c5b-4c1c-ad22-89d207976f44/the-good-parent
Timestamps:
00:00 | Introduction
01:12 | Why Do Teenagers Experiment With Substances? 05:16 | What to Do When You Catch Your Teen Using
09:03 | Peer Pressure, Money & Access
14:58 | Teenage Identity Development & Boundaries
28:38 | Addiction vs. Experimentation - When to Seek Help 40:00 | Impact on Family & Siblings
45:00 | Final Advice for Parents Raising Teens Today
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