How does a parent know?  How does a parent know how much their child is engaging in the illegal substance.....pot?  My son, 15, claims it's recreational (says he just does it once a month).  I've seen behaviors that tell me different, however.  And, as far as I know, I have never seen him under the influence.  One minute I think he's engaging more than recreational and other times......he seems fine and can be very easy to be around. I scheduled a drug assessment for him today.  It was NOT court ordered.  It may be.... once the "hearing" takes place but I wanted it done ASAP.  He will be going to diversion court (a step below juvenile ct) but that won't take place for another 4 or more weeks.  He was furious with me for scheduling it ahead of time and also told me it was a waste of time.  Many of his friends said the drug assessment didn't work for them.  **I know.....what does it take to knock some sense into me? ......especially since I mentioned that his friends are associated with drug assessment.  I'm not stupid.....but I also am afraid I might be over-stating or my imagination ......more than what he is actually doing.  That is the reason for the assessment.  Unfortunately, he did not quite cooperate.  He and I talked to the assessment "person" and then he was to meet with her.  She gave him a choice (noticing his attitude) and ended up talking to me instead.   I called an acquaintance of mine (friend for short) and she has a son who went through major rehab for pot 2 yrs. ago and had to pay the price (missing a lot of school) but in the important long run.....he is drug free....happy and very proud of himself for staying sober.  The friend, told me to call the juvenile detective and tell him that I should insist that my son skip the local diversion program that promotes community service and to have my son ordered to attend the drug court.  Her son was much further than mine is (from her description) and I don't know if that is the way to go for him.....