Voice-over:
When it comes to kids accessing alcohol, friends or young adults are often assumed to be the
source of their supply. But a new study points to parents as major providers of alcohol to the
middle-school set.
Voice-over:
Researchers from the University of Florida asked nearly 4,000 Chicago area middle-
schoolers whether they had consumed alcoholic beverages in the past year, and if so, how they
got them. At the start of sixth grade, about 17 percent of students surveyed said they'd
had a full drink in the past year. That number soared to 33 percent by the end of eighth
grade. What's more, sixth- and seventh-graders indicated their parents or guardians were the
primary source of the booze they imbibed. In eighth grade, however, other adults and commercial
outlets like convenience marts and liquor stores became more prevalent sources. Experts say
while initiatives to curb kids' smoking and drug use have been effective, reining in alcohol use in
minors continues to be a challenge.
Dr. Kelli Komro / UF epidemiologist
"We've seen more significant declines in tobacco and illegal drugs. Alcohol use has decreased slightly but it's still one of the toughest behaviors to change in our culture because drinking is so culturally accepted among adults."
Voice-over:
Some parents might think it's safer to provide alcohol to their children in the security of their own home. But these moms and dads may be unaware of the dangerous downsides. Subsequent involvement in car crashes, violence, sexual assault and problems in school or at home can be rooted in underage drinking. Experts say education and prevention in the pre-teen years could be key to lessening the likelihood of alcohol-related problems as kids reach high school.
Dr. Kelli Komro / UF epidemiologist
"So this study clearly shows that it's very important to educate parents about the consequences of the early onset of drinking to try to prevent them from being the source of alcohol for their children."
Voice-over:
At the University of Florida Health Science Center, I'm Mike Garrison
