Underage Drinking: Is It Worth It?

Gr 7 Up—The reasons, effects, risks, responsibilities and consequences of underage drinking are presented in this educational documentary. Diverse, underage teens are depicted in real-life settings sharing their stories involving drinking and recovery. School and rehabilitation counselors discuss the reasons teens drink and binge drink as well as the harmful effects on the body. A law enforcement agent focuses on the criminal aspects of underage drinking, including the DUI arrest process and the long-term implications of DUI convictions for teens. Consequences from risky behaviors, including STDs, HIV, AIDS, rape, DUI, and death, are emphasized by medical professionals. Chapters include topics such as: underage purchasing of alcohol, binge drinking, risky behaviors, getting arrested, and alcohol overdose. The most notable section of the program is when a mother shares the heartbreaking loss of her daughter to alcohol poisoning, emphasizing how it could have been prevented. Chapter selection is available. Interviews are impressive and age appropriate, making this an effective teaching tool for students in middle and high school.—Linda M. Teel, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC