NCJ Number
210243
Date Published
2005
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This video presents a panel discussion of issues related to binge-drinking/problem-drinking among secondary-school and college students.
Abstract
The four members of the panel, who are professionally involved in efforts to analyze, prevent, and treat alcohol abuse discuss various issues related to binge drinking, defined as five drinks within 2 hours for men and four drinks within 2 hours for females. Engaging in such binge drinking more than five times a month is evidence of alcohol dependency. The panel first notes the high prevalence of alcohol use and abuse among youth, whose emotional immaturity does not prepare them to use alcohol responsibly. Panel members then discuss the consequences of binge drinking and alcohol dependency for the abuser and for the community. Some of the consequences discussed are impaired functioning that causes vehicular and other accidents, lowered academic performance, lowered inhibitions that can lead to increased aggression and unprotected sex, and a lack of focus on goal-setting for one's plans beyond school. A discussion of how binge drinking begins notes that the onset of drinking at an early age increases the likelihood that alcohol dependency will develop in later years. A discussion of prevention and deterrence measures focuses on reduction in the accessibility of alcohol for youth by raising the drinking age, increasing the enforcement of drinking laws, suspending the licenses of drunk drivers, and conducting sobriety checkpoints. Treatment methods for alcohol dependency are discussed as well. One of the panel members, who was alcohol dependent in college, recounts his path to sobriety and constructive living. The panel members recommend a comprehensive strategy for countering binge drinking and alcohol dependency that involves school personnel, law enforcement agencies, parent groups, and community service organizations.