There are a number of reasons that teenagers use alcohol. Often, teens turn to alcohol in order to deal with their own emotional needs or problems. In many cases, teenagers use alcohol because they feel influenced by others, such as their friends, family, or the media.

Wanting to fit in and be popular

Experts say pressure placed on teenagers by their friends is the most common reason teens begin to use alcohol. This type of pressure is known as peer pressure. Peer pressure occurs when a teen’s friends or acquaintances use alcohol and urge him or her to do likewise. According to a 2002 study conducted by experts at D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education), 90 percent of all schoolchildren report being pressured at some time by their friends to drink alcohol. Because teenagers have a strong need...