MYTHS ABOUT KIDS & DRINKING

Young people drink to have a good time. 

A recent national survey of junior and senior high school students tells a much 
different story. More than 30% of teenagers drink alone; boredom and emotional 
distress are among the reasons why they say they drink. 

Alcohol is less dangerous than other drugs such as marijuana, cocaine or LSD. 

Car crashes, suicides, homicides and drowning are all associated with alcohol 
use and make it the number-one drug problem for young people. In fact, the most 
likely cause of death for a 16-year old is alcohol-related. 

If I let my child drink at home, he or she will be less likely to get into 
trouble with alcohol outside the home. 

Research shows teenagers whose parents allow them to drink at home are more 
likely to drink outside the home and to use other drugs. They also have a much 
greater chance of developing a serious problem. 

So long as my child doesn't drive, it's okay for him or her to drink. 

Teens don't drink the same way adults do. Many teens engage in "binge drinking" 
and down their drinks quickly so that they will get drunk. When they are drunk 
they are more likely to drink and drive, or to ride with another teen who has 
been drinking. 


More on the Campaign to Prevent Kids from Drinking 


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