Teens experiment with alcohol due to peer pressure, curiosity, or normalization of alcohol consumption among family and friends. Access to alcohol has also become more convenient, with the rise of online delivery services and fake IDs, making it easier for minors to obtain alcoholic beverages.
According to the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, fewer than 2 in 100 adolescents ages 12 to 13 reported drinking alcohol in the past month, and fewer than 1 in 100 engaged in binge drinking. Maintaining and implementing prevention strategies during early adolescence is vital to reduce the likelihood of alcohol-related consequences.
Consequences of Underage Drinking
Underage drinking can have severe consequences for both individuals and society as a whole. Some of the prominent repercussions include:
- long-term health problems, including liver damage, brain impairment, and an increased risk of addiction later in life,
- impaired judgment and coordination, making teenagers more susceptible to accidents, injuries, and even fatal car crashes,
- legal consequences, including fines, community service, and even imprisonment in some cases, that can hinder personal development and future opportunities,
- and exacerbating existing emotional and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
Efforts to Combat Underage Drinking
As a community it’s important to encourage positive peer pressure and fostering a culture of responsible decision-making among teenagers is essential in reducing underage drinking by:
- schools, parents, and organizations continuing to educate teenagers about the risks associated with alcohol, hoping to deter them from experimenting,
- law enforcement curbing underage drinking with penalties for selling alcohol to minors,
- community-based initiatives and support networks providing alternatives to alcohol-centered activities, encouraging teenagers to make healthier choices,
- and parents monitoring their children’s activities, including attempts to purchase alcohol or engage in underage drinking
