Early Aged Drinking Affects Progression to Adulthood

Drinking is commonplace in the U.S., with two-thirds of Americans saying they never drink alcohol, and just over 40% reporting that they had at least one drink in the past week, (Gallup, 2012) but with today’s generation which age groups are affiliated with the amount of alcohol consumption? That’s right, adolescents have become overpopulated in scenes that pertain to any form of drinking. With relatives, clubs that have lowered age restrictions, and close friends giving the initiative to drink at younger ages, it has made adolescents subject to these scenes. Unfortunately, these individuals do not realize the trouble and disadvantages that they are placing on teens.

According to a study conducted by psychology majors at Indiana University, “they associated drinking problems at age 18 years of age with 13 outcomes -- such as sustained substance abuse, poor health, physical symptoms, early coital debut, multiple sexual partners, life dissatisfaction, truncated education, and financial problems -- that were later assessed at age 25.” (Rose, 2014) With new cases displaying adolescent development, the findings have become severe and are seen as a downfall for future generations. Eventually, our adults will become less financially stable, vulnerable to relationships, and struggle with education and professionalism. With the intention of re-evaluating parenting procedures to ensure our children are receiving proper direction for future obstacles and adversities, parents must latch onto the idea of surpassing ineffective rates and developing successful, influential adults.

Recommendations:

Learn healthy ways to interact with your child:

http://www.education.com/reference/article/parent-child-interaction/     

Elizabeth Valladares, Executive Assistant

GAACS Accreditation