Underage Drinking
Parents, your influence is powerful.
The choices your kids make around alcohol are shaped by your words and actions. Be proactive: talk openly, set expectations, and stay involved. Together, we can reduce underage drinking.
Tennessee's Social Host Law
Tennessee’s social host law pertains to serving or providing alcohol to anyone under the age of 21. Doing so would incur a $1,000 fine as well as criminal misdemeanor charges in court.
Think it’s safer for teens to drink at home? Think again.
Many parents believe this is true—but the facts tell a different story. Click on the myths below to separate fact from fiction.
Reality is, kids are going to drink. FACT: In Union County, 14.8% of 8th-12th graders have ever had alcohol, according to the TN Together Student Survey 2024-2025. While we won't be happy till that number says 0, that means 4.25 out of 5 Union County teens aren't drinking.
Teens with overly strict parents often drink more or take bigger risks. FACT: We’ve never seen any research that supports this claim. However, we do know that kids who receive messages that their parents completely disapprove of underage drinking are 80% less likely to drink than teens who don’t, according to MADD.
It's just a sip... FACT: Early alcohol use makes teens more likely to develop an alcohol use disorder later in life.
Teens will drink anyway, so it’s better if they do it at home. FACT: Allowing teens to drink at home does not make them safer. Studies show teens who drink with parental permission are more likely to drink more often and in larger amounts later. Clear rules and expectations from parents are one of the strongest protections against underage drinking.
Talking to teens about alcohol will just make them curious and more likely to try it. FACT: Open conversations actually reduce risk. Teens who regularly talk with parents about alcohol and its risks are less likely to start drinking and more likely to make safer choices when faced with peer pressure.
Beer and wine aren’t as harmful as liquor for teens. FACT: All alcohol affects the developing teen brain the same way. The amount of alcohol consumed—not the type of drink—is what matters. Beer, wine, and liquor can all impair judgment, coordination, and brain development in teens.
Facts About Alcohol
Knowing the facts helps teens make healthier choices.
The NIH provides important information on the risks and impacts of underage drinking.
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Slower brain development - research shows individuals' brains keep developing till the age of 25.
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Young people who drink alcohol are more likely to engage in risky behaviors that can lead to injuries and health conditions.
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Impairs Judgment
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May cause injuries
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Alcohol can hurt grades and attendance.
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It’s illegal for anyone under 21 to drink—driving after drinking is even riskier.
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Lastly, people who start drinking earlier in life have a higher risk of using alcohol excessively or developing alcohol use disorder later in life.
Tips For Parents
Most teens believe their parents should have a say in their drinking decisions (NIH).
Use these tips to help keep your teen alcohol-free.
1. Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse.
-Kids listen to parents—over 80% say you shape their drinking choices. Speak up: underage drinking and drug use are not okay.
2.Show you care about your child’s health, wellness, and success.
-Show concern, stay open, and focus on safety—teens are more likely to listen when they know you care.
3.Show you’re a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs.
-Be your teen’s trusted source—help them make safe, informed choices about alcohol and drugs.
4. Show you’re paying attention and you’ll discourage risky behaviors.
-Pay attention—teens take more risks if they think no one is watching.
5. Build your child’s skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use.
-Even if your child isn’t interested in drinking or drugs, peer pressure is strong. Make a plan together—practice saying “no” or using a code word for support.
Setting An Example
Teens whose adults drink more than five times a month are more likely to drink themselves (NIH).
Children model what they see. The way you interact with alcohol sends a powerful message—here are tips to set a positive example.
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Avoid drinking to de-stress around children—show them healthy coping skills instead. (hyperlink under healthy coping skills https://www.cdc.gov/mental-health/living-with/index.html)
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Never drink or use drugs and drive, and don’t ride with someone who has.
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Don’t provide alcohol or drugs to your child or their friends—make underage use unacceptable.
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Keep alcohol and prescription meds secure, and remind teens they’re off-limits.
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Keep celebrations alcohol-free, skip “fun” drinking phrases, and don’t involve your kids in getting alcohol.
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Seek help if you struggle with alcohol or drug use.
