For teens, the most immediate physical problem associated with alcohol abuse is the possibility of alcohol poisoning, which can cause blackouts, vomiting, and sometimes even death. Hangovers are a less dangerous, but nevertheless painful, side effect of binge drinking. In the long term, the possibility of becoming an alcoholic is perhaps the most serious medical problem associated with chronic alcohol abuse.

There are also many social problems associated with teen alcohol abuse. These are problems that occur because of the irresponsible and antisocial behavior many people exhibit when they are inebriated. Drunk driving is a well- known example. Rates of drunk driving are highest among teens, in part because their youth and inexperience with alcohol makes them more likely to use poor judgment after drinking.

A less publicized problem associated with teen drinking is the link between alcohol abuse...