Title: Underage Drinking
Abstract: This problem-oriented guide discusses the issue of underage drinking. It addresses psychological motivations that contribute to underage drinking, such as the belief that it can serve as a ‘rite of passage,’ and also describes environmental factors, such as media saturation and price discounts. The guide reports that one of the most commonly cited reasons for underage drinking is simply “the absence of alcohol-free places to socialize…outside of school” (8, 40), which leaves minors with no other choice but to attend events where alcohol is served. In addition, common ways that alcohol is obtained and places where it is consumed by minors is identified. A list of questions is also provided to help cities analyze their distinct local challenges with underage drinking, along with a specific set of responses that can be used by safety officials, bar and restaurant owners, and parents. These include such tactics as the implementation of Responsible Beverage Service programs and social norms programs. The report repeatedly emphasizes the fact that the police alone cannot implement these suggestions. Instead, the most effective approach involves the formation of a partnership or coalition comprised of diverse stakeholders from safety, hospitality, and community perspectives, who are willing to work together on tackling underage drinking.
Author First Name: Kelly
Author: Kelly Dedel Johnson
Author Last Name: Dedel Johnson
Author eMail: askCOPSRC@usdoj.gov
Publisher: U.S. Department of Justice
Publisher Website: http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/
Date of Publication: 2004
Publication Type: Book
Focus: Safety
Issue: Mixed Age Venues
Date Submitted: 5/2/2006
Submitted by: Alicia Lakomski
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