Advice for parents on talking to teenagers about alcohol

-Research shows delaying the age young people start drinking has a positive impact on adulthood -

-Parents who talk to their teenagers can delay drinking and influence their opinion of alcohol -

In advance of the Christmas holidays, the HSE is reminding all parents and guardians that research shows that clear messages from parents that underage drinking is unacceptable, delays teenagers from drinking alcohol. Teenagers who start drinking later in life are more likely to use alcohol in a low risk manner as adults.

Teenagers learn about alcohol by observing the drinking of their family, friends and their community. The good news for parents is that they exert a powerful influence on their children’s drinking.

The most important factor in curtailing alcohol related problems in teenagers is positive parenting based on good communication and setting firm limits. It is best to undertake these strategies in childhood, before adolescence, and before any drinking has occurred. Teenagers may use alcohol because they want to move away from being a ‘child’ and see drinking as a sign of maturity. Parents need to challenge the view that you need to drink to be an adult.

Dr Bobby Smyth, Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, HSE, commented: “There is some misinformation regarding the value of giving adolescents the opportunity to try alcoholic drinks at home. The latest research shows that parents giving alcohol to young people is associated with higher levels of alcohol related harm. The immediate risks associated with teenage drinking include accidents and injuries, getting into fights, being assaulted, self harm and unplanned sexual activity.

Parental disapproval of adolescent drinking is associated with lower levels of later alcohol abuse. Teenagers need clear messages from their parents that underage drinking is not acceptable. While some parents may think it’s a good idea to introduce alcohol early to their children, the evidence indicates that it is a counterproductive strategy, carrying many more risks than benefits.”

4 steps for parents when dealing with young people and alcohol;

1. Know the facts about alcohol.

• Be informed. Talk to your teenager about alcohol in a calm matter-of-fact way.

2. Have family rules

• Have a small number of general household rules. Monitor adherence to these and ensure there is a negative consequence if rules are breached.
• The evidence shows that teenagers benefit from clear messages from parents that underage drinking is unacceptable. Be clear about what is allowed or not allowed, for example; if they are not allowed attend parties where alcohol is served.

3. Know where your teenager is

• Who are they with? Will there be adult supervision? Will there be alcohol present?

4. Think about your own drinking.

• If you drink alcohol, use it in a low risk manner. Remember, what you do will be seen by your teenager and it will influence how they think about alcohol. There is advice and supports available to help parents communicate these important messages to their teenagers.

The HSE provides information for young people and their parents on alcohol and low risk drinking on www.yourdrinking.ie and would strongly advise parents and young people to be aware of the negative impact that alcohol has on your health and wellbeing. 

Source: hse.ie, 20/12/12