Research suggests the earlier teens start to consume alcohol, the more problems they will have with it in adulthood.

Parents should have a zero-tolerance approach to teens and alcohol, to reduce risky drinking in adulthood, according to recent research.

Speaking on 3AW Breakfast, adolescent health expert at the University of Melbourne, Professor George Patton, said there are no benefits for allowing teenagers to consume alcohol before the age of 18. 

‘This idea that parents get, that somehow kids are going to learn to use alcohol sensibly if they provide it in the home, that idea is one that seems to be wrong’.

Professor Patton said evidence shows the earlier teenagers start to consume alcohol, the more problems they will have with it in adulthood. 

‘Every study that has looked at parental supply of alcohol to kids, it’s a bad idea’.

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