Lucy, understand that being prone to something does not mean being destined to it. I am part Cherokee and most native Americans are prone to alcoholism, but most realize that and can therefore take steps to avoid temptation and keep themselves away from such a temptation. The alcoholism rate among Native Americans is still higher than it is for the population as a whole, but those who avoid it have simply made adjustments, for what they understand could be a weakness. I guess it really boils down to where your faith is. As Christians, many on this board are like me and understand the truth behind Paul's words when he wrote, "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." [I Cor 10:13] If you are not a Christian (or another faith that trusts in Divine help) then your faith is elsewhere and the verse would be of no comfort. Then you must decide whether we choose our path or it is chosen for us by blind chance. If the former, then raise your son to handle what comes his way. If the latter, then all you can do is worry.