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What Are the Theories of Teenage Drinking?

There are many theories concerning the causes and possible long-term effects of teenage drinking. These issues have social implications as well. Teenage drinking follows many commonalities associated with alcoholism in general, and there is major concern over alcohol's effect on the developing adolescent mind. Teenage drinking is a hot topic of research by many universities and addiction research facilities.

  1. General Theories

    • According to Medicinenet's "Alcohol and Teens" article, primary theories in teenage drinking concern family issues. Roxanne Dryden-Edwards, M.D., believes minimal parent supervision or communication, existence of family conflicts and discipline issues, either severe or inconsistent discipline, are possible causes of teenage problem drinking. Other theories concern the teenagers themselves, including whether the teen has problems handling impulses, is emotionally unstable, and believes alcohol to be a non-threatening, safe substance, when compared to other drugs. Teens with a risk-taking attitude are also candidates for alcohol abuse.

    Peer Pressure

    • The effects of society and peer pressure on teenage drinking cannot be minimized. One theory concerns the relationship of alcohol and society. According to Drug Addiction Support, alcohol is widely accepted and embraced in American society, making it an acceptable part of American culture. The influence of others causes a teen to believe that drinking is OK because "everyone else" is doing it. Many teenagers want to belong and fit in, and drinking with peers allows them to do so.

    Genetics

    • According to a study published in "Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research" in April 2011, genetics plays a major role in teenage drinking, especially when teens drink to alleviate negative feelings. Since alcohol sometime plays a role in teenage coping motives, the study found that certain genotypes are associated in this process, further supporting the role of genetics in alcoholism. As of 2011, the study is in the process of identifying the specific genes concerning teenage drinking.

    Problems Into Adulthood

    • Heavy drinking during the teenage years, especially in older teens, may result in adult alcoholism. According to the study, "Adult Consequences of Late Adolescent Alcohol Consumption," published in the February 2011 issue of "PLoS Medicine," a journal of the Public Library of Science, "There is sufficient evidence to show that reducing drinking among older teens not only prevents immediate harm, but also may lower the risk of long-term problems." Since adolescence is when young minds are influenced many things, both consciously and subconsciously, drinking may become more than just a simple rebellion or opportunity to fit in.

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