Many factors enter into the initiation of alcohol use. These range from genetic predispositions to situational and environmental influences as well as societal pressures/perceptions.

Different individuals will react differently to consumption of alcohol as well as other drugs due to genetic differences. Some individuals remember with amazing clarity the first time they consumed alcohol while others cannot. This suggests differences in what alcohol's impact was for the individual at the time.

From research and surveys such as the Minnesota Student Surveys we know that those who begin using alcohol at an early age tend to come from families with individuals likely to have a member with substance use disorder or have experiences stressful events such as physical or sexual abuse.

The research is also clear that the earlier on begins to drink alcohol, the greater the probability of developing an alcohol use disorder. Student surveys have shown that those who begin drinking during the middle school years are more likely to have developed indications of problems by high school. Thus prevention efforts should begin in the year or years prior to high school - ages 12-13.

As the old adage states: For every complex problem there is a simple answer, and it's wrong.