Why Do So Many Kids Drink? As children mature, it is natural for them to assert their independence, seek new challenges, and engage in risky behavior. Underage drinking is one...
Why Do So Many Kids Drink?
As children mature, it is natural for them to assert their independence, seek new challenges, and engage in risky behavior. Underage drinking is one such behavior that attracts many adolescents. They may want to try alcohol but often do not fully recognize its effects on their health and behavior.
Other reasons youth drink alcohol include:
- Peer pressure
- Increased independence or the desire for it
- Stress
In addition, many youth have easy access to alcohol. In 2023, among adolescents ages 15 to 17 who reported drinking alcohol in the past month, 84.3% reported getting it for free the last time they drank. In many cases, adolescents have access to alcohol through family members or find it at home.
(Source: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/)
