Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Less Than One-Third of High School Students Perceive a Great Risk in Drinking Daily

This study highlights the perceptions of high school students as it relates to alcohol consumption. Some shocking statistics show us that over 60% do not see any risk associated with drinking one or two drinks nearly every day. Have you talked to your teen about alcohol? Tell us about it in the comments section.

High school students are less likely to report a great risk in drinking nearly every day than in the regular use of illicit drugs, according to data from the 2010 Partnership Attitude Tracking Study. Less than one-third (27%) of high school students report that they think there is a great risk in drinking one or two drinks nearly every day and only 55% see a great risk in drinking four or more drinks nearly every day. One-half of students perceive a great risk in using marijuana reguarly. The perceived risk of regular use of other illicit drugs is much higher, ranging from 72% to 84%. The survey also found that only 31% of students disapprove of teens their age getting drunk. Previous research on high school students has shown that teens' decreased perceptions of risk and disapproval of alcohol and drug use are related to increases in use.