Binge drinking among teens during the holidays

The party season is here, and binge drinking especially among teens is rampant. Professor Christine Griffin’s new research is timely, as it highlights young people’s relationship to alcohol. Griffin, a professor at the University of Bath, conducted this ESRC-funded project to guide future studies about alcoholism among the youth.

The research focused on the responsibility of marketing and advertising strategies in molding the attitude of young people about alcohol consumption. It studied more than 200 advertisements (broadcast and print) and yielded two results: one good, one bad.

The bad news is that “determined drunkenness” and “extreme drinking” is the norm for young people. Professor Isabelle Szmigin made a comment on a related study. “Although many young people recognize the damage that ‘drinking too much’ can do to their health, and the associated risks of physical and sexual assault, few view these as more than short term problems,” she said.

According to the study, the media projects an image that binge drinking is entertaining. Add to this the images of “cool” drunken celebrities and it’s no surprise that the social acceptance of drinking among the youth is high. The link between “having fun” and alcohol has been perpetrated

by traditional media, and is even worsened by social networking websites where teens can post and share pictures of drunken night outs.

Griffon’s recommendation is to “Stop demonizing and making generalizations about young people and their drinking.” She adds that researchers, teachers, and parents also need to “listen and incorporate (the youth’s) views and perspectives.”

The good news is this: The study indicates that youth alcohol consumption is now leveling off. It dos not show why, but evidence suggest that there has not been a rise in alcoholism among teens.

The study also recommends a radical rethinking of alcohol policies, which according to a comment by Professor Chris Hackley should take the “social character of alcohol consumption and the identity implications for young people” into account.

Pacific Hills Treatment Center remains committed to providing alcohol rehab for teens and adults who need it..