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A Drink or Two?
Teen Thoughts on Drinking
By Carma Haley Shoemaker
"I know that alcohol can have bad effects on the body and mind," says Alaina, age 14, from Batavia, Ill. "It can cause diseases, cancers and cripples your ability to think and act appropriately. To me, that's not fun -- it's just crazy."
Many teens know these consequences of alcohol consumption and avoid its use. These teens do not feel that the "high" alcohol gives is worth the risk to their future. "I don't drink because I know that it is bad for you, illegal and can be fatal," says Alaina. "Many of the teens I know say they 'drink to have fun.' Well, there's a difference between having fun and just going out of control. I don't need to drink to have fun. And besides, I don't want to ruin my chances of a good future, hurting myself or someone else."
Many teens hear about the dangers of drinking from their parents and teachers. But in reality, the decision is going to be solely their own. They are the ones who are going to have to take a stand on this issue -- as well as many others. What they think and feel about drinking is what is truly important.
"Teens may get a thrill from drinking for a while but then it wears off," says Holly, age 16, of Springdale, Ark. "A lot of teens want to feel 'big,' like an adult. They try too hard to be grown up when they should just be teens while they can. I have heard my parents talk about the dangers of drinking all my life, but I have made my mind up on my own. These are my reasons.
