NCJ Number
213679
Date Published
2006
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This booklet provides practical information to parents on how to prevent their children from engaging in underage drinking.
Abstract
The booklet first provides basic information on the prevalence and effects of underage drinking. It notes that many kids start drinking in middle school. This is particularly alarming because research has shown that children who begin drinking alcoholic beverages before the age of 15 are five times more likely to develop alcohol problems than individuals who start drinking after age 21. Alcohol effects are particularly detrimental to teens, whose brains are still developing. It can impair motor coordination, impulse control, memory, and judgment. Underage alcohol use is significantly associated with violence, risky sexual behavior, poor school performance, illicit drug use, and impaired driving. The booklet advises that parental influence is one of the strongest factors in preventing underage drinking. Children are less likely to drink when their parents are involved in their lives. Parents become role models by either not drinking or drinking moderately. Parents should provide accurate and complete information to their children on why they are not allowed to drink alcoholic beverages. Children should know that underage drinking is against the law and has mostly negative effects on the body and behaviors. If parents drink moderately, they should explain their own rules for drinking. If parents don't drink, they should explain their reasons for not doing so. The following advice is provided to parents: talk early and often with your child; get involved in your child's life and activities; be a role model; teach kids to choose friends wisely; monitor your child's activities; and set rules. There should be clear rules about alcohol that are specific, consistent, and reasonable. Good behavior should be recognized. Some examples of techniques for interacting with children on the issue of underage drinking are suggested. 30 references and 9 resources