Preventing teen drinking
There are many factors involved in preventing teen drinking. Much research has shown that parental involvement is key in preventing teen drinking. Although many parents do not feel like their teen is listening or responding to their advice when it comes to drinking and smoking, research shows that teens actually do listen to their parents when parents use authority and are consistent in their discussions. A study conducted by Jackson (2002) indicates that, “only 19 percent of teens feel that parents should have a say in the music they listen to, and 26 percent believe their parents should influence what clothing they wear. However, the majority—around 80 percent—feel that parents should have a say in whether they drink alcohol. Those who do not think that parents have authority over these issues are four times more likely than other teens to drink alcohol and three times more likely to have plans to drink if they have not already started.”
Also, it has been shown that teens who believe that their parent would be upset with them or disappointed with them for drinking are less likely to do so. This important fact highlights the importance of communication between teens and parents in discussing expectations and preventing teen drinking.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services indicates some key elements to preventing teen drinking. These include:
“Talk early and often, in developmentally appropriate ways, with children and teens about your concerns—and theirs—regarding alcohol. Adolescents who know their parents’ opinions about youth drinking are more likely to fall in line with their expectations.
Establish policies early on, and be consistent in setting expectations and enforcing rules. Adolescents do feel that parents should have a say in decisions about drinking, and they maintain this deference to parental authority as long as they perceive the message to be legitimate; consistency is central to legitimacy.
Work with other parents to monitor where kids are gathering and what they are doing. Being involved in the lives of adolescents is key to keeping them safe.
Work in and with the community to promote dialogue about underage drinking and the creation and implementation of action steps to address it.
Be aware of your State’s laws about providing alcohol to your own children.
Never provide alcohol to someone else’s child.”
(U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2007)
Further, recent studies have highlighted the importance of community support in preventing teen drinking. Interventionservicesinc.com reports that, “teenagers who are engaged in their community may be less likely to drink.” Recent research conducted at Pennsylvania State University indicates that teens that are part of a loving, supportive, and protective community are much less likely to start abusing alcohol. This research emphasizes the need for positive community involvement and experiences.
With open, respectful communication and explanations of boundaries and expectations, parents, teachers, and community members can influence teen’s decisions well into adolescence and beyond. In regards to preventing teen drinking, this is especially important due to the lifelong consequences.