Think you know all there is
to know about underage drinking and house parties?
Myth: Kids are too smart to drink in somebody’s home
Fact:
Surveys continue to show that teens and pre-teens drink at house parties
more often than any other venue. And it’s illegal.
Myth: Kids are
probably safer drinking at a house party than anywhere else.
Fact: House parties don’t occur in a vacuum – kids drive to and
from them. 32% of South Dakota students reported riding with someone who
had been drinking; 17% admitted to driving after drinking. That’s
illegal.
Myth: As long as they stick to beer, underage drinking isn’t a problem.
Fact:
A 12-ounce
can of beer, a 5-ounce glass of wine, and 1.5 ounces of hard liquor all
contain the same amount of alcohol and have the same effects on the body
and mind. And underage drinking is illegal.
Myth: Kids are going to drink anyway, so it’s better to open up the house
for party with alcohol.
Fact: Hosting an underage drinking party is illegal, and kids whose
parents are firm in their stance against underage drinking are more likely
to refuse alcohol and delay their first drinking experience. Be a parent.
The
bottom line is, adults have a huge impact on children and teens’ decisions
about drinking and other drug use. If they believe their parents condone
underage drinking, they are more likely to drink. If they know their
parents strongly disapprove, they are less likely to do so. Be a parent.
