PROVIDING ALCOHOL
PROVIDING ALCOHOL TO UNDERAGE
Giving alcohol to anyone under the legal drinking age (usually 21 in the U.S.) is dangerous and can be harmful for brain development — whether you're a parent, older friend, or stranger. It can cause serious legal, health, and safety concerns and consequences for both the adult and the minor.
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Providing alcohol to minors is illegal, unsafe, and irresponsible — even if it's “just one drink” or under adult supervision.
LEGAL CONSEQUENCES
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Criminal Charges: Providing alcohol to minors is a misdemeanor or felony in many states.
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Fines and Jail Time: Penalties may include thousands in fines, license suspension, and jail time.
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Civil Liability: If a minor causes injury or death (e.g., in a drunk driving crash), the adult who provided alcohol can be sued.
THE RISKS
1. Alcohol Poisoning
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Minors are more likely to drink excessively, leading to life-threatening overdoses.
2. Accidents and Injuries
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Increases risk of car crashes, falls, drowning, or violence.
3. Risky Behavior
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Leads to poor judgment, including:
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Unsafe sex
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Fights or assault
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Property damage
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Legal trouble
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4. Brain Development
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Alcohol affects the developing teen brain, causing:
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Problems with memory, decision-making, and impulse control
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Higher risk of depression, anxiety, and addiction
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5. Gateway to Alcohol Use Disorder
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Early alcohol use increases the risk of developing alcohol dependence later in life.
HARM TO THE COMMUNITY
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Undermines school safety, public health efforts, and parental trust
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Normalizes underage drinking and puts other teens at risk
