Underage Drinking Spike during Prom Season

Prom season, a time recognized for its overpriced attire, dinner, dancing, and after parties. One particular component of the prom festivities has led to the time of year’s newest label, the “killing season.” The debatably extreme nickname can be explained in just two words, underage drinking. Underage drinking is the most overlooked element of prom.  Many public schooling systems have instated various alcohol prevention techniques such as random breathalyzer tests. But despite the regulations placed on the actual dance the actual problem is just beginning as students leave.  The drinking primarily takes place at what students call the “real parties.”

"Prom and graduation season is here again - this is a time for celebration," says Susan Molinari, Chairman of The Century Council. "Unfortunately, these happy occasions sometimes involve underage drinking which can result in tragedy. It is no secret that children under 21 years old are drinking. It is therefore critical that parents keep the lines of communication open when it comes to talking to their kids about the dangers of underage drinking and drunk driving."

Statistics show that Prom-Graduation season, April, May and June, is the most dangerous time for teens.  The effects are seen most evidently on the roads. One-third of the alcohol-related traffic fatalities involving teens each year occur during those months. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, during Prom and Graduation Season in 2005, 676 students under the age of 21 were killed in alcohol-related traffic crashes.

Research from the insurance industry, The Partnership at Drugfree.org (formerly The Partnership for a Drug-Free America), and Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) shows 70 percent of high school juniors and seniors expect their peers to drink and drive on prom night. 

The key to stopping underage drinking is through countering peer pressure and partnering with the student’s parents. Many parents have adopted the “don’t ask don’t tell” policy in regards to their child’s drinking habits.  Some parents consider drinking at prom a rite of passage, while others simply ignore what’s going on.

Adrian Lopez, director of community outreach for Drug Free Youth in Town expresses the main message in terms of deterring underage drinking, “Don't let prom be your last dance."

By: Ellie Fink