Youth Alcohol & Tobacco Prevention: Strategies & Resources

According to the Centers for Disease Control, a significant public health problem has arisen due to alcohol and drug use among America's youth. Adolescents are typically introduced to drug use prevention and education methods in elementary school.

D.A.R.E.

• Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) begins teaching drug intervention methods at the kindergarten level. Police officers provide lessons and guidance on resisting peer pressure and avoiding risky behavior. In addition, young people learn the dangers of alcohol and tobacco addiction.

Alcohol &Tobacco Laws

• Minimum age laws have been established in all U.S. states to help deter youth from consuming alcohol and tobacco products. According to minimum age laws, the legal drinking age is 21 years. The legal age to consume tobacco products is 18 years.

Considerations

• Parents play a vital role in preventing drug use among youth. Young people whose parents establish themselves as positive role models by setting a good example are less likely to experiment with drugs and alcohol.