How to Educate Teenagers About Alcohol Abuse

Talking to teenagers about alcohol abuse can be a touchy subject, especially when there are so many negative influences on television and from other media sources. Educating teenagers properly about the dangers of alcohol abuse is important to prevent drunken driving, alcoholism and unwise decisions. Allow teenagers to ask questions about alcohol, and explain that drinking responsibly, if the decision to drink comes up, is the smart way to go.

Instructions

• 1

  Listen to what your children have to say. Your teen might have opinions about alcohol. It's best to listen to their opinions and help them make their own decisions. Remember to treat them with respect.

• 2

  Encourage teens to make a smart choice about alcohol. Allowing children to make other choices starting from early childhood will help them develop independence, and they will grow to be great decision-makers. Tell your teens your own values and feelings about alcohol without putting pressure on them.

• 3

  Tell your teens the dangers of consuming alcohol on a regular basis. Tell them that alcohol consumption creates liver problems if abused. Explain to your teen what alcohol abuse is, which is continued drinking despite relationship problems, missing important events at home, work or school and receiving DUIs and other alcohol-related offenses. Make sure your teen knows the dangers of drunken driving.

• 4

  Discuss with your teen what makes a good friend. Peer pressure is an important subject matter and can influence a teen to do things he wouldn't normally do to fit in. Explain to them that a good friend will never encourage them to drink alcohol if they don't want to or just to be popular or cool. Talk to your teen about why people take drugs and the difference between good drugs and bad drugs.

• 5

  Build your child up, and increase her self-esteem. Praise your teen for every good deed he does and for good grades. According to childrennow.org, children who are shown love, appreciation and affection are less likely to participate in deviant behavior. Keep your child well-informed as she grows, and keep offering age-appropriate information about the effects of alcohol abuse.