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As well as being largely unaware of medical advice, our research showed how much parents overestimated the prevalence of teen drinking.
Parents in our survey believed 27% of 13-15 year olds drank regularly (once a week or more often) whereas in fact only 8% do so.[1]
It seems that many of us are recalling what we were doing at that age, when behaviours have significantly changed over the past 20 years, during which time rates of underage drinking have halved.[2]
There are also some widespread myths.
[1] CAP (2022): An alcohol-free childhood – action to ensure parents keep their children free from alcohol harm.
[2] NHS Digital (2020): Smoking, drinking and drug use among young people in England 2018.
Myth vs Reality
In France it’s common to allow children to drink alcohol and they don’t have any problems.
In France it is customary for families to add a splash of wine to water to introduce children to the flavour without the intoxicating effects. And while France may not have a binge drinking culture, a recent study found [3] that up to 30% of the adult population is drinking at harmful levels.
[3] NSERM (2021): Réduction des dommages associés à la consommation d’alcool.
If I am too strict about alcohol my child will rebel and drink to excess.
Teenagers who consider their parents to be permissive are much more likely to binge drink. When parents don’t allow their children (aged 11-15) to drink, 89% choose not to drink.[4]
[4] NHS Digital (2020): Smoking, drinking and drug use among young people in England 2018.
It’s OK to give kids drinks like fruity ciders and alcopops – they aren’t as strong as beer, wine or spirits.
Fruity ciders and alcopops are as strong as many beers.
