Even with the permissible limit set on the consumption of alcohol, seems like teenagers refuse to follow the rules. In a recent survey by Assocham conducted under its Assocham Social Development Foundation (ASDF) in which more than 2,000 teenagers between the age group of 15 to 19 took part, most said they initially took to drinking to be at par with their peer groups. More than just that, teens give us a sneak peak into their lives where partying “with alcohol” is a must.
Lavanya, a DU student, says, “We don’t really drink often, but whenever we do, it’s mostly to celebrate an occasion or event. Often when we win a competition, instead of treating each other at restaurants, we prefer to buy a few beers and celebrate at a friend’s place.”
For some it’s celebration, for others it’s a habit. “I started drinking with my cousins and now I enjoy it twice a week to chill out with friends. We now find it the best way to celebrate. We can all get a litte high and enjoy ourselves. No one mishaves ever. For many of us, alcohol has become a necessity when we decide to party,” says Richa (name changed on request).
What’s giving the trend a further boost are the fruit flavoured beverages. So, if not vodka, try breezers. “I don’t consume alcohol at all, but when I see my friend having colourful drinks, I opt for a breezer just to chill. There are no parties without alcohol these days,” shares Shweta, a Class 12 student.
While some kids are aware that their parents know about their drinking habits, others (especially those who live in hostels) have no qualms in hiding it from their parents.
Says Shireen, a second-year student, “I live in a hostel, so I can go out to drink when I want. We don’t really go to pubs often as it is really expensive, so we enjoy ourselves at our friends’ homes. Most of us don’t have easy money flowing in. We don’t spend a lot on outings, so enjoying a few drinks at home and ordering food from the local dhaba has now become our ideal way to enjoy and celebrate birthdays.”
Interestingly, in a survey, 45 per cent of 12th graders in metropolitan cities were found to be consuming alcohol excessively, at least five to six times in a month while 40 per cent of girls reported having their first drink between the ages of 15 and 17. Tapasya, a school teacher, explains, “It’s just about being ‘cool’ in your peer group. I don’t think youngsters drink to beat stress. But I think drinking has become a trend in most parties today, and parents are pretty liberal about it.”