Alcohol is the most widely abused substance among Texas students.
In a 2004 survey by the Department of State Health Services, 68 percent of secondary students reported they had used alcohol at some point in their lives. While many view underage drinking as an inevitable rite of passage, the consequences can be serious and even fatal.
Almost one out of four Texas seniors say they have driven after having several drinks, about 10 percent of secondary students say they have attended class while drunk. In 2004, about 22.5% of young drivers under 21 involved in fatal traffic crashes were under the influence of alcohol.
The good news is that parents, schools and communities are joining forces to help turn the tide against underage drinking. Research continues to show that parents have a powerful influence on their children's decisions about alcohol and drugs. Texas students who said their parents disapproved of teen alcohol use were half as likely to drink as their peers who said their parents didn't care.
To help protect your child from the dangers of underage drinking, arm yourself with the facts and let your child know you disapprove of teen alcohol use.
Cost of Underage Drinking by Problem, Texas 2005 |
| Problem | Total Costs
(in millions) |
| Youth Violence | $2,669.1 | 2.7B |
| Youth Traffic Crashes | $1,067.0 | 1.1B |
| High-Risk Sex, Ages 14-20 | $789.5 | 789.5M |
| Youth Property Crime | $292.9 | 292.9M |
| Youth Injury | $172.0 | 172.0M |
| Poisonings and Psychoses | $43.4 | 43.4M |
| FAS Among Mothers Age 15-20 | $135.7 | 135.7M |
| Youth Alcohol Treatment | $22.4 | 22.4M |
| Total | $5,191.9 | 5.2B |
| Source: Underage Drinking in Texas, The Facts |
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Related Links
Alcohol's impact:
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Parent power
Research shows that parents have a powerful voice in their children's lives and decisions. Kids who say their parents strongly disapprove of underage drinking are half as likely as their peers to use alcohol, according to a statewide survey of Texas students.
Straight talk
Be specific when setting rules, prevention experts advise. Make sure your child knows that your noalcohol policy is in effect at all times - in your home, at friends' homes, on vacation, etc.
Resource spotlight
You can download English or Spanish brochures called "Parenting Skills: 21 Tips and Ideas to Help You Make a Difference" at www.theantidrug.com or order this brochure by calling (800) 788-2800.
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