Quick overview: The most useful questions about teen drinking are open-ended and curious rather than accusatory — questions like “What do you like about drinking?” and “What are the not-so-good things?” Asking what alcohol does for your teen, not just to them, uncovers the reasons behind their drinking and keeps them willing to talk to you.
Many young people use alcohol for reasons that aren’t obvious. These questions can help uncover motivations, pressures, and concerns. Knowing these can help you help your child.
Understanding Their Point of View
- What do you enjoy doing when you’re with friends?
- What role does alcohol play in those situations?
- What do you think alcohol does for (and to) people?
Exploring Their Reasons for Drinking
- What do you like about drinking?
- What do you not like about it?
- What are the good things that happen when you drink?
- What are the not-so-good things?
Understanding Social Pressure
- How hard is it to say no?
- What happens if someone doesn’t drink?
- How important is fitting in?
Exploring Risk
- Have you ever seen someone get hurt or become sick because of drinking?
- Have you ever worried about a friend?
- Have you ever done something while drinking that you later regretted?
Looking Ahead
- Where do you see alcohol fitting into your life a year from now?
- What does or would concern you about your own drinking?
- What would tell you it was becoming a problem?
Questions to Avoid
Why would you do something so stupid?
What’s wrong with you?
Are you lying to me?
Don’t you know better?
You don't have to figure this out alone.
Visit the Alcohol Resource Center for trusted information, practical tools, and support to help you navigate alcohol-related concerns with confidence.