Underage Drinking

Alcohol has become the drug of choice among youth. Young teens are experiencing the consequences of drinking alcohol at too young an age. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), 50 percent of eighth graders have had at least one drink and 30 percent of 12th graders engage in binge drinking three or more times a month. Underage drinkers are putting themselves at risk for detrimental brain damage, a reduction in their inhibitions and severe legal consequences.

The brain goes through changes during adolescence and exposure to alcohol during this time can cause long-term, irreversible brain damage. The hippocampus and the prefrontal area are the two areas of the brain most affected by adolescence alcohol consumption. A study performed by the American Medical Association showed that adolescent drinkers scored ten percent less than non-drinkers in vocabulary, general information, and memory retrieval.

Alcohol consumption affects a person’s decision-making capacity and judgment by lowering their inhibitions. A reduction in inhibitions tends to lead to risky behaviors among adolescences that result in physical harm. These risky behaviors include sexual behavior and driving under the influence of alcohol.

It is very important to make the right decisions about underage alcohol use. The legal consequences associated with underage drinking are severe. Underage drinking is a misdemeanor and is punishable by a fine, community service, or by suspension of the driver’s license. One night of fun can turn into many years of consequences.