Alcohol

    

Alcohol use and abuse is a serious problem among young people. There are a number of unhealthy risks associated with it, including alcohol dependence, and alcohol related accidents and violence. In fact, the most likely cause of death for a 16 year old is alcohol related.1 For that reason, it is important to clearly understand the extent of youth involvement in underage drinking. The statistics on alcohol use should be examined in light of the large number of youth not involved in this unhealthy risk behavior, especially when they are empowered by positive relationships with parents who give them clear direction. More than three-fourths of youth ages 12-17 are not regular drinkers.2 It is very encouraging that despite some sensational headlines and tragic incidents related to alcohol use and abuse, data from the past two decades show a continuing trend of decreasing youth alcohol use.3* One major area of concern remains; however, the increasing percentage of teens who binge drink.