Author(s) :

Eric Sher.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

The problem of underage drinking in the United States is a serious public health concern. Parental influence is considered one of the major factors associated with adolescents’ attitudes toward underage drinking. This study examined the relationship between parents’ social drinking behaviors and high school students’ attitudes toward underage drinking. A cross-sectional mixed-methods survey design collected quantitative and qualitative data through anonymous surveys administered to high school students and parents of high school students in the United States. A total of 217 participants were included in the final analysis, consisting of 143 high school students in grades 9-12 and 74 parents. Most high school students reported observing their parents drinking in social environments but reported that these behaviors had little or no impact on their attitudes toward underage drinking. In contrast, most parents believed that their social drinking behaviors strongly influenced their children’s attitudes. Inferential analysis identified a statistically significant association between greater reported exposure to parental social drinking and more accepting student attitudes toward underage alcohol consumption. These findings suggest a perception gap between parents and high school students regarding the impact of parents’ drinking behavior. High school students may separate adult behavior from their own decisionmaking more than parents assume. Therefore, modeling behavior alone may not be sufficient to shape students’ attitudes toward alcohol, while open communication about expectations, responsibility, and consequences may play a more significant role. These results emphasize the importance of considering both parent and high school student perspectives when addressing underage drinking prevention strategies.