Alcohol Consumption Among Adolescents

Alcohol consumption begins as early as adolescence.
In fact, data shows that 85.7% of 17-year-olds had already tried an alcoholic beverage. In addition, 44% report having engaged in at least one episode of binge drinking in the past month, and 8.4% drink alcohol at least 10 times a month.

There are many factors that explain why alcohol appeals to young people.

Numerous neural changes take place during adolescence. These include, for example, a desire for thrills and impulsivity, as well as a greater sensitivity to the stimulating effects of alcohol. In addition, adolescents tend to find it more rewarding to drink heavily than to consume alcohol in moderation.

Added to this is the social influence of other young people. At parties, it’s easy to be persuaded to drink, whether through peer pressure or drinking games. Drinking together can also create a sense of belonging.

Parents also influence young people’s drinking habits. A study conducted in Ireland (Eimear M. et al., 2016) showed that adolescents whose parents engage in risky drinking are three times more likely to drink riskily themselves.

About 42% of the parents surveyed agreed to let their teenagers drink alcohol on special occasions—thereby making it easier for them to discover and access alcohol.

In addition, young people from difficult family backgrounds or who are in stressful situations are at higher risk of excessive alcohol consumption.

It should be noted that young people who have easier access to alcohol through bars, nightclubs, or supermarkets in their neighborhood drink more than those with less access.

However, alcohol consumption is not without risks for young people.

In addition to the risks associated with intoxication (coma, accidents) and various illnesses, it can impair the healthy development of the brain (which continues until around age 25).

In fact, alcohol consumption can lead to a decrease in the volume of gray matter (neurons) and slow the development of white matter (which connects neurons to one another).

These effects can impair brain activity, which affects many cognitive functions. For example, verbal learning, memory, reaction time, and self-control are all diminished. This can also lead to increased risk-taking behavior (posing a danger to oneself and others).

To avoid these consequences, it is therefore important to engage in a dialogue about alcohol and to opt for moderate, occasional consumption.

Sources:

alcohol-info-service.fr

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