. I believe I will approach them in a non-intimidating and non-threatening fashion. Recognizing this is a transition phase for my child, I view this conversation as a means of aiding in their personal development, as well as strengthening my connection with them. After sitting down with my child I will not speak with them in an accusatory way, but rather ask their perspective on cigarettes and alcohol. My belief is that punishing them outright will be ineffective as it would not target the course issue, namely their acceptance of cigarettes and alcohol in their life. Rather I will continue the discussion through having an open dialogue about these substances, and I will inform my child the dangers of each. I will spend considerable time emphasizing how these substances deter an individual from having a healthy, fulfilling, and happy life. I will concluded by informing them if I found evidence of alcohol use I will take measures towards punishment, including taking their car away from them. Ultimately, I believe the conversation will be successful in establishing the facts about these substances in a way that would not encourage rebellious or spiteful behavior.

Family development theory is an approach to studying families that considers dynamics elements of change and development (White 2007, p. 4). Within this spectrum of understanding theoretical applications have been implemented in considering transitions and developments both within individuals and within the larger family structure. In many instances, systems theories have been implemented as a means of addressing the ways that families interact. For instance, Bronfbrenner’s ecological systems theory divided social structures into a variety of systems that then correspondingly are analyzed for their interacting tendencies (Steinberg, 2008, p. 43).