How to Tell if a Teen has Been Drinking
According to a 2004 study by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 77 percent of all high school seniors have had an alcoholic drink. When your child comes home from a night with her friends, you can tell if she has been drinking by making a few observations about her behavior and physical appearance.
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Instructions
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Drinking Signs
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1
Smell her breath. When your teenager comes home, talk to her and try to smell her breath without making it too obvious.
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2
Look into your child's eyes. If she has been drinking, her pupils will be dilated and she might not be able to focus on you.
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3
Pay attention to your teenager's behavior. Is she loud? Does she stumble when walking? Is she laughing over silly things? Watch for behavior that is out of character for your child.
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4
If you suspect that your child is lying to you or being vague about where she is going, it might be a sign that she is drinking or doing something else she doesn't want you to know about.
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5
Keep an eye on your child's grades. If she starts failing a class for no legitimate reason or if she is skipping school, she might be out drinking with friends.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure you know where your teen is going and who her friends are. Count the bottles of alcohol in your home and ask questions if any alcohol is missing.
