What Factors Influence a Teenagers Decision to Drink Alcohol

Delay your teenager’s introduction to alcohol as long as possible and if you do supply alcohol, only supply small amounts.  Be a good role model around your kids - either don't drink alcohol or drink only small amounts. Build a good relationship with your teen and keep the line of communication open.

It’s also important to be aware of the key factors that influence a teen’s decision to drink. These include:

• Truancy and poor educational achievement/ school relationships

• Early introduction to alcohol

• Exposure to adult binge drinking or alcoholism

• Access to alcohol from parents and others

• Alcohol marketing

• New Zealand's drinking culture

• Having money to spend

• Conflict or bullying

• Long periods of unsupervised time

• Friends who drink heavily

To find out more about how to help your teen delay drinking take a look at the rest of our online resources. We've also attached a helpful guide for download below which includes a range of strategies to put in place to keep your kids safe around alcohol.