A recent survey conducted by Voxmeter for the Danish Health Authority has brought to light the conflicting views of Danish parents on youth alcohol consumption. The survey reveals that 70% of parents are concerned about the high levels and early start of alcohol consumption among children and youths. Interestingly, an almost equal proportion of parents believe that introducing alcohol at home is beneficial, underlining the complexities within Denmark’s prevailing alcohol culture.

Despite the willingness of parents to discuss alcohol with their children, the survey indicates a gap in translating these discussions into effective and concrete agreements. A significant number of parents doubt the efficacy of the rules they set regarding alcohol, and find it challenging to collaborate with other parents on this matter.

Maria Aabel Koch, a Chief Consultant at the Danish Health Authority, stresses the importance of clear agreements in changing the alcohol culture among the youth. The Health Authority strongly advises against alcohol consumption for those under 18, a stance that contrasts with current societal norms. Koch emphasizes the critical role of parents, schools, and community organizations in influencing the alcohol habits of children and teenagers. She notes that children who have clear agreements about alcohol consumption generally start drinking at a later age and consume less.

Challenging the prevalent notion, Koch argues that introducing alcohol in a home setting may not be protective, and could inadvertently encourage earlier and increased consumption among youths. To combat these trends, the Danish Health Authority has launched a comprehensive campaign aimed at educating parents about their vital role and responsibility in shaping their children’s alcohol habits. The campaign, echoing the sentiment “You have to teach your child many things, but not to drink,” includes a set of ten practical tips for parents to negotiate effective alcohol agreements with their children.

The survey’s findings are set against a backdrop of Danish youths drinking more and starting earlier than their European peers, a trend that has persisted for over two decades. This exposes Danish youth to higher health risks and other negative consequences associated with alcohol consumption. Young individuals are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of alcohol, facing increased risks of accidents, impaired judgment, and long-term impacts on brain development, especially when alcohol use begins in adolescence.

The campaign underscores the importance of parental engagement and agreement-making with teenagers about alcohol, particularly as they transition to higher education where alcohol consumption typically rises. Studies suggest that clear and consistent agreements with parents can significantly reduce alcohol consumption among youths, pointing to the effectiveness of parental guidance in mitigating the risks associated with early alcohol use.

Find more from the Danish Health Authority (Denmark, December 2023)