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Abstract
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Alcohol consumption became a prevalent behaviour among adolescents. Several studies have been conducted in Lebanon to analyse the factors associated with the onset of alcohol consumption among this age group. Our research objective focused on parental and friends influences to encourage schools implementing early education programs. An online survey study enrolled 170 teenagers aged between 15 and 18 from schools in Lebanon aiming to identify the relevant factors contributing to alcohol consumption among teenagers. Among the 170 participants, 134 reported consuming alcohol. We identified 3 categories of alcohol consumers: Category 1 consuming several times a week; Category 2 consuming once a month and category 3 consuming once a year. In Category 1, 74% of participants reported that most of their friends consume alcohol, compared to 55% in Category 2 and 34% in Category 3. A similar trend was observed regarding parental alcohol consumption with 91% in Category 1 who reported that their parents drink alcohol in comparison to 82% in category 2 and 69% in category 3. Additionally, the relationship with parents was described as good by 91% of Category 1 participants, in contrast to 87% in Category 2 and 75% in Category 3. Alcohol consumption in teenagers in Lebanon seems to be associated with drinking habits of their friends with a strong correlation to parental consumption. Furthermore, a positive relationship with parents may significantly influence the likelihood of increased alcohol use among teenagers. This could help in implementing educational initiatives ultimately promoting better health outcomes for teenagers.
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