Our topic is focused on teenage drinking. Underage drinking is not exactly a huge problem, but it should be carefully looked upon to prevent un-needed trouble. But first I would like to touch upon the fact that most teenagers are believing that drinking is not a big deal when it really is.
Teenagers these days are often told that drinking is okay, if they are not in public and are drinking privately. If they are to drink, they are to drink safely, that was it. If they aren't causing a huge problem, then anything is alright-- even if it means breaking the law.
Teenagers are most likely to drink if their parents encourage them, or if their surroundings (friends) drink.
The Century Council has brought us some interesting statistics
• 30% of 16-18 year old girls say they drink with friends, only 9% of their mothers think their daughters are drinking;
• 51% of 19-21 year old girls say they drink with friends and only 32% of their mothers thought they were drinking.
Also
• 38% of mothers say it is okay for their daughters to drink on special occasions;
• 21% of mothers say it is okay to drink under parental supervision at home;
• 20% of mothers say drinking alcohol is a natural part of growing up."
Many parents feel that they are the only ones who are able to teach their children how to drink responsibly. They seem to forget that underage drinking is illegal. So as long as the parents themselves are aware of where their children are drinking, they don't seem to mind.
Drinking is alright as long as a supervisor is aware of where and how much the teen is planning on drinking. There is no harm in enjoying a glass of wine with a meal.
Drinking is alright- as long as there's a supervisor
• 16% of 13-15 year old girls say they drink with friends, only 5% of their mothers think their daughters are drinking;
• Nearly half (49%) of mothers of teenage girls say it is okay for their daughters to drink;
