







As they enter their teens, education is not enough to deter Utah kids from drinking alcohol because there are constant pressures to drink. In addition, the brain area that promotes impulsivity and risk-taking develops early in a teen, while the good judgment area of the brain isn't fully developed until about age 24. Kids need help to stay alcohol-free.
Parents who are actively involved in their kids' lives and set clear rules and expectations on no alcohol use have a powerful influence on their children's decision to remain alcohol-free.
HIGHLIGHTED PREVENTION RESOURCE: (CLICK FOR THE VIDEO) The facts are in – alcohol can have a long-term negative effect on teen brain development. Click here to see new research in Lesson 8 of the Strengthening Families Home-Use DVD, and the three easy skills parents need to prevent teen use. (For parents and teens to view together)
Read MoreFirst Lady Jeanette Herbert and M.A.D.D. President Art Brown talked about the dangers of underage drinking and the "Parents Empowered" campaign.
In September 2006, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) released alarming new research on the effect of alcohol on the developing teen brain increasing the likelihood of early addiction and brain impairment. In response to these research findings a number of Utah stakeholders came forward to develop a comprehensive approach to the problem.