The Issue of Underage Drinking - Essay Example

The issue of underage drinking has been in the public limelight for a long time. According to Hanson et al, a drinking permit should replace the minimum legal drinking age as a solution to the problem. According to Hanson et al, prohibition is not the ultimate solution since it only leads to retaliation. The under-age will do anything to make sure they have their drink without being caught by the law. When the law finally allows them to drink, they do it irresponsibly since there was no introductory mentorship.

Instead of promoting rebellion, responsible drinking should be encouraged through a “provisional drinking license” which is similar to a provisional driving license. Moderation will lead to results that are more realizable as compared to the minimum drinking-age restrictions. Certainly, underage drinking is a prevalent problem, especially among Americans. Different control measures have been taken to address the issue. However, each one of them has its advantages and disadvantages. I agree with the author that responsible drinking should be encouraged.

This is even more important when dealing with a revolutionized society. The present youth develop in all aspects at a very fast rate as compared to the ages of our parents. Therefore, imposing stern legal restrictions regarding drinking may not realize the desired results. Instead, guidance and mentorship should be preferred. A provisional drinking license seems to be the best way forward. Introduction to drinking should be stepwise. This will eliminate dangerous drinking such as binge drinking.

Hanson et al feel that prohibiting age is not a good solution. I agree with him since there are cases of adults experiencing irresponsible drinking. Responsible drinking is also common among young adults who have not yet reached the drinking age. Jenna Bush is a good example of responsible drinking among young adults. Although she was highlighted for underage drinking, her drinking was responsible. Undeniably, responsible driving is gained through gradual introductory classes. The same case should be emulated for responsible drinking among young adults.

However, a one-sided approach cannot work effectively. Although the author advocates for a drinking permit, the idea cannot work without rules and guidelines. The drinking permits ought to be followed by strict regulations to make them effective. For example, it would be good if the permits specified that an adult such as a parent is present at the time of drinking. This way, the parent, mentor, or guide would be in a position to instill good drinking behavior. Hanson et al failed to mention the cases where the under-age has shown deviant behavior in the past.