This episode presents a dilemma far too common in households across America. Finding illegal drugs in your child's belongings was a problem in the 1980s when this episode originally aired, and it unfortunately remains a problem today. I think the script executed in 'Theo and the Joint' is a good outline for dealing with such a problem.
Theo is a good kid, but doesn't do well in school. He has other character flaws but he is a good son to Cliff and Claire. When his mother finds a marijuana joint in his textbook, Theo vehemently denies that it is his. Relying on his record of honesty and truthfulness, his parents believe him and say that the matter is closed. Theo, however, takes it upon himself to find out who is stashing drugs in his books. He brings the guilty party to his home, and the owner of the joint confesses to Cliff.
This had the potential to be one of the longest lasting episodes of any sitcom. It addresses an issue that is as much alive today as it was 20+ years ago, and addresses it well. Parents should all take a look at this sitcom in general, and this episode in particular, and keep the lessons of The Cosby Show in mind as they raise their own children.
Theo is a good kid, but doesn't do well in school. He has other character flaws but he is a good son to Cliff and Claire. When his mother finds a marijuana joint in his textbook, Theo vehemently denies that it is his. Relying on his record of honesty and truthfulness, his parents believe him and say that the matter is closed. Theo, however, takes it upon himself to find out who is stashing drugs in his books. He brings the guilty party to his home, and the owner of the joint confesses to Cliff.
This had the potential to be one of the longest lasting episodes of any sitcom. It addresses an issue that is as much alive today as it was 20+ years ago, and addresses it well. Parents should all take a look at this sitcom in general, and this episode in particular, and keep the lessons of The Cosby Show in mind as they raise their own children.
