A Study of the Use of Alcoholic Beverages among High-School Students in Utah

Abstract

Anonymous questionnaires administered to students in 5 high schools revealed the occasional use of alcoholic beverages by 20% of the girls and 44% of the boys. The majority drank because of social motivation. There were many younger students who reported the use of alcohol but also disapproved of social drinking. The mean age at first drinking for all students was 14.5 years but many were introduced to alcoholic beverages at or before age 12. The proportions of students and parents of the same sex who used alcohol were approx. the same. Emphasis on alcohol education in the schools should begin at an earlier age than has been the practice in the past in Utah.