Why do youth choose to drink?Peer pressureRisk-taking behavior
associated with adolescenceDecreased parental supervision / greater
independenceIncreased stress
Effects of alcohol on adolescentsIncreases risk-taking
behaviorsDecreased academic performanceMay lead to drug useHealth
risksBrain development
Alcohol and brain developmentTeens brain more easily damaged by
alcohol than an adults brain
More likely to have significantly lower mental abilitiesDecrease
ability to learn
Hippocampus is smaller
Loss of motor skills
Binge drinkingFor males: 5 drinks in one sitting For females: 4
drinks in one sitting
Those who binge drink:10x more likely to drink and driveGet
lower grades40% black out as a result of drinking30% have unplanned
sex as a result of drinking30% have argued with friends as a result
of drinking
Harvard School of Public Health
Alcohol advertisingResearch clearly indicates that alcohol
advertising and marketing also have a significant effect by
influencing youth and adult expectations and attitudes, and helping
to create an environment that promotes underage drinking. (Center
for Alcohol Marketing and Youth, 2010)
Adolescents do not feel that advertising has an effectBut
studies show that the brain reacts differently in drinkers than
non-drinkers. (Why21.com)
Prevention ProgramsEncourage school involvementParents,
teachers, role models communicate!Provide alcohol-free
opportunitiesKnow the risksEnforce the laws
