NCJ Number
160647
Date Published
1994
Length
2 pages
Annotation
There is no evidence that alcohol advertisements contribute to alcoholism or other forms of alcohol abuse among teenagers or adults.
Abstract
Advertising does not cause alcohol abuse; this has been proven by years of government and private research. In a report to Congress, the Department of Health and Human Services stated, "Research has yet to document a strong relationship between alcohol advertising and alcohol consumption." Beer advertising does not cause people to drink. Since 1970, beer advertising expenditures have increased dramatically, yet per capita consumption among adults has remained virtually level and even declined during the 1980's. Instead of increasing consumption, advertising creates brand preference among adult beer drinkers. Brewers advertise responsibly and under tight supervision. All beer ads on TV have been through a demanding review and approval process. They must be reviewed by company lawyers and conform to company and industry ad codes; they must also meet the networks' standards and practices guidelines before being put on the air. The brewing industry has for years devoted many resources to the education of parents and children about making the right decisions about alcohol use. Statistics show that these and other programs are working.