Tech News Summary:
- A recent study from the University of Otago, Wellington found that there has been a significant drop in drinking among young people over the past 20 years, with high school students today socializing differently than in previous generations.
- The study shows that only one Year 10 student interviewed last year reported drinking alcohol socially, and even among students in years 11 and 12, around three-quarters were abstinent or drank moderately on rare occasions, often with family rather than friends.
- Not drinking is now much more socially acceptable among teens than it used to be, with many considering drinking or partying lifestyles as risks to their personal ambitions, although policymakers must continue to focus on reducing the harm of alcohol among young people.
In a recent study conducted by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, it has been found that today’s teenagers are drinking at a significantly lower rate than their predecessors. The study, which analyzed the drinking habits of over 17,000 high school seniors from 1976 to 2016, found that the percentage of teenagers who reported consuming alcohol in the past month has dropped from 93% in the late ’70s to 67% in 2016.
The decline in teenage drinking is being attributed to a range of factors, including cultural changes, increased education, and public health campaigns designed to discourage underage drinking. In addition, a growing number of teenagers are now choosing to live a sober lifestyle, with many citing social and health reasons for their decision.
Despite the positive trend, however, experts warn that there is still work to be done to address the dangers of underage drinking. While teenagers may be drinking less frequently, those who do choose to drink are often consuming larger amounts of alcohol in a single sitting, which can lead to serious health problems such as alcohol poisoning and long-term liver damage.
Overall, the study highlights the need for ongoing efforts to educate young people about the risks and consequences of alcohol abuse, and to continue to promote healthy alternatives to underage drinking. With the help of continued research and public awareness campaigns, we can work towards ensuring a safer and healthier future for our young people.