A new study published in the Journal of Prevention Science finds that the reason a teenager drinks is important as to whether or not he or she becomes an alcoholic.

Lori Palen, chief researcher in the study done at Pennsylvania State University, surveyed 1877 high school seniors and found that 75% drink. One-third said they drink for the thrill of it, 36% to experiment, and 15% to relax.

However, the minority (18%) reported drinking for multiple reasons, such as an inability to deal with anger and frustration, experienced more problems with alcohol. They were more likely to have started drinking as early as sixth grade, and more likely to drink on a daily basis.

Teens who have difficulty controlling their emotions and dealing with their feelings may benefit from a residential treatment center that offers therapy and academics. SunHawk Academy is a residential treatment program in a boarding school setting that caters to the needs of teens with substance abuse problems.

Labels: alcohol_abuse, pressure, risky_behaviors