NCJ Number
117184
Date Published
1986
Length
10 pages
Annotation
In interpreting juvenile drinking habits, this study accepts the definition of alcohol abuse developed by the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare.
Abstract
This definition views alcohol abuse as 'repeated episodes of intoxication or heavy drinking which impairs health, or consistent use of alcohol as a coping mechanism in dealing with the problems of life to a degree of serious interference with an individual's effectiveness on the job, at home, in the community, or behind the wheel of a car...and may raise a strong inference of alcoholism.' Research indicates that some alcohol consumption occurs normally in social interaction among some students, with drinking being more widespread among high school students than in the lower grades. The relevant data are incomplete, however. The proportion of teenage problem drinkers has risen considerably across all ethnic, geographical, and income groups; however, certain ethnic groups may be more prone to problem drinking, and some geographical areas contain more problem drinkers than others. Not all problem drinkers remain problem drinkers, and not all abstainers remain such, although there are many diverse variables that influence these behavioral patterns. Laws have sought to prevent juvenile alcohol abuse through age restrictions on its purchase, but the alcohol beverage industry continues to push consumption among teenagers. Expanded educational efforts and counseling could help reduce juvenile alcohol abuse. 13 references.