The Best Methods to Determine a Child Alcohol Problem
As frightening as it may be, it is important to be aware that your child may start drinking at an early age. A survey conducted by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found that 26 percent of 8th graders, 40 percent of 10th graders and 51 percent of 12th graders said that they had consumed alcohol within the previous month. Learning how to tell if your child has an alcohol problem is the best thing you can do to help him before the problem becomes severe.
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Changes in Behavior
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Any radical change in your child's behavior may be a sign of a problem -- including an alcohol problem. If your outgoing child is suddenly withdrawn or isolated, discuss the changes with him. Speak often and openly until you are sure of the causes for the change in behavior. Other changes may include a decrease in school or activity attendance, declining grades and angry outbursts. More than the typical childhood moodiness, these outbursts are usually severe and long term.
Changes in Appearance
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Your child may also undergo a change in physical appearance if he is using alcohol. He may stop showering on a regular basis or abruptly change clothing preferences or hairstyles. If your normally tidy child is now dressing and looking slovenly, talk to her to try and determine the problem. Any extreme or abrupt change in physical appearance may be cause for concern.
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Friends
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Get to know your child's friends. If your child starts hanging out with new or different people, check them out to make sure they are people you would want your child to associate with. You have good reason to be concerned if these new friends have known drug or alcohol problems or behavioral problems in school or at home. The best way to counteract the influence of undesirable friends is to always be aware of what your child is doing and with whom she is hanging out.
Drug Test
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The most definitive way to determine if your child has been drinking is a drug test. Home tests are readily available, but because these tests typically use breath or saliva, you have to perform them as soon as you suspect your child is drinking. A lab or doctor can also administer a test. As these tests are more sensitive, your child need not currently be under the influence of alcohol for an accurate result.
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References
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