The Pros and Cons of Lowering the Drinking Age to 18

In recent discussions surrounding public health and teenage behavior, the topic of lowering the drinking age has emerged. Current evidence suggests that the minimum legal drinking age (MLDA) of 21 in the United States is associated with numerous societal costs and negative outcomes. However, the idea of reducing it to 18—matching it with the age of majority in the United States—presents both advantages and disadvantages. This article explores both sides of the debate, highlighting the implications on public health, teenage behavior, and economic factors.

Pros of Lowering the Drinking Age

Potential for reduced teenage highway deaths: One argument for lowering the drinking age is that it might reduce teenage highway deaths. According to the article, more teen highway deaths are already the leading cause of death among US residents aged 15-24. However, it's important to consider whether decriminalizing alcohol consumption would lead to better education and responsible behavior.

Increased educational and economic opportunities: Farmers, alcohol distillers, and retailers would likely see significant economic benefits from lower sales restrictions. By being able to target a younger market, they could potentially increase their sales volume, thereby boosting their revenues.

Cons of Lowering the Drinking Age

Increased teenage and young adult incidence of alcoholism and ‘problem drinking’: Studies have shown that lower drinking ages correlate with higher rates of alcoholism and problem drinking in the 18-24 age group. This can lead to long-term health issues and socioeconomic problems, including mental health disorders and dependency.

Rising rates of teen suicide, homicide, poisoning, and accidents: The article notes that suicide, homicide, poisonings, and accidents are the second, third, fourth, and fifth leading causes of death for ages 15-24, respectively. Lowering the drinking age may exacerbate these issues, as alcohol consumption can impair judgment, increase aggression, and lead to risky behaviors.

Increased juvenile delinquency and criminal activity: There is evidence that younger populations, particularly those aged 16-17, show increased juvenile delinquency, while 18-20 year olds are more likely to engage in criminal activities. Easing restrictions on alcohol consumption could potentially lead to a rise in these behaviors.

Impact on job productivity and economic growth: As alcohol can impair cognitive functions such as motor control, reaction time, and mental capacity and impulse control, it could adversely affect the productivity of young adults entering the workforce. This could hinder economic growth and productivity in the long run.

Health Implications and Cognitive Compromise

Regardless of the political stance on alcohol consumption, it is important to note that the physiological effects of alcohol on teenagers are similar to those on older adults. The article emphasizes that alcohol consumption among teenagers has the same physiological effects as on older adults, including motor control impairment, increased reaction time, and diminished mental capacity and impulse control. However, teenagers are already relatively poor in these areas compared to older adult age groups. This makes the effects of alcohol consumption in this age group a compounding factor in the major problems that we already see among teenagers, such as risky behaviors and poor decision-making.

Conclusion

Balancing the potential economic benefits with the significant public health risks, the issue of lowering the drinking age to 18 is complex. While it may offer certain advantages, the drawbacks include increased alcohol-related health problems, premature deaths, and higher rates of criminal behaviors. Further research and careful consideration of the data are necessary before any changes are made to the current legal framework.

References

The Minimum Legal Drinking Age and Public Health
USA CAUSES OF DEATH BY AGE AND GENDER