How parents can influence teenage drinking

Number 6.3 June 2008 (updated April 2011)
For parents

Young people are influenced by a lot of different factors including the media, their peers and siblings, however, it is important to remember that parents remain the greatest influence on their children.

This fact sheet looks at a number of ways in which parents can influence their teenager’s alcohol intake, and reduce the likelihood that they will become involved in unsafe drinking. It has been found that a supportive, warm relationship with a significant adult helps protect against all kinds of adverse events in young peoples’ lives, including unsafe drinking. Encouraging open communication within the family is a good place to begin.

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