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Factors that contribute to underage drinking

So why the big jump between 10th and 12th grade? Although there are many reasons why teens may choose to drink, the IYS data shows us that as teens become older, the protective factors that can prevent teens from drinking decrease.

• Parental Disapproval: 67% of 12th grades reported their parents would feel it was wrong/very wrong for them to drink alcohol regularly, compared to 89% of 10th graders.
• Alcohol Access: 85% of 12th graders reported that it was easy/sort of easy to get alcohol, compared to 59% of 10th graders.
• Risk of Harm: 76% of 12th graders reported that there is a moderate/great risk of harming themselves if they take one or two drinks of an alcoholic beverage nearly every day, compared to 86% of 10th graders.

For more information on the District 113 Illinois Youth Survey results click here. 

What can we do?

Your words and actions do make a difference!  Research shows that parental disapproval of underage drinking is the #1 reason youth choose not to drink. (SAMSHA, US Department of Health and Human Services).  Discuss often your expectations that they will not use, as well as the social, legal and health consequences associated with underage drinking.  Even as teens get older and prepare for college, this expectation needs to remain the same - it is still illegal and unsafe for them to use alcohol. 

Walk the talk by not leaving them and their friends alone in the house with access to alcohol.  45% of 12th graders reported that they usually use alcohol at someone else's home where parents are not aware.  It is easier for teens to choose not to drink when alcohol is not readily accessible.

Talk with other parents and share your concerns and expectations.  You will find that MOST parents share your beliefs and want to help keep our teens safe.

For more information about Parents. The Anti-Drug, please visit www.parentstheantidrug.org.