Teens' Perception and Behavior Regarding Alcohol Consumption. Prevention Strategies

Abstract

Adolescence is a stage of life that begins, according to specialists, around the age 13-14 and can extend even until 20 years old. The end of adolescence marks the beginning of maturity and the transition to adulthood. This period is characterised by a series of obstacles, whereby psychological and behavioural imbalances are often identified. For teenagers, showing off, being different and impressing their friend groups are common. As a result, alcohol use is one of the many options adolescents may choose to reach such "performance." Many of them are nonchalant regarding alcohol use and consider drinking a temporary phase with no consequences. Others have deeper knowledge about drinking, but don’t apply them. In this paper, I will highlight some aspects on perception and behaviour in adolescents regarding alcohol use, which were analysed based on an interview applied to teenagers in several high schools in Suceava County. I will also detail the strategies and possibilities of prevention to reduce this phenomenon among adolescents.