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A recent study may give kids the OKAY to 'talk back' to their elders. Researchers at the University of Virginia found that young teens, allowed to argue effectively from time to time, are more likely to resist peer pressure to use drugs or alcohol. The study filmed 150 13-year-olds, summarizing arguments they'd had with their mother. The disagreements were usually over household rules, grades, or monthly allowances. Three years later those same teenagers answered questions about their experiences with drugs and alcohol. Those who had displayed confidence and reason when arguing with their mother were more likely to refuse peer pressure. UVA Psychology Professor Joseph Allen headed up the study and found that the more argumentative teens had learned to assert themselves and establish a sense of autonomy. Allen suggests that parents hold fast to rules, but show kids a reasonable way to disagree versus whining or hostile behavior such as slamming doors. The researchers admit, letting kids 'talk back' may be counter-intuitive.