Choosing to Live Alcohol-Free – Key Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and facts from the lesson on choosing to live alcohol-free.

Alcoholism

A physical or psychological dependence on alcoholic drinks.

Physiological Dependence

A chemical need for alcohol experienced by the body.

Psychological Dependence

The belief that alcohol is needed to feel good or function normally.

Alcohol Abuse

The excessive or inappropriate use of alcohol.

Peer Pressure

Influence from friends that may encourage or discourage alcohol use.

Family Influence

Parental attitudes and behavior that shape a teen’s decision about alcohol.

Media Messages

Advertising that links alcohol with youth, health, and fun while hiding negatives.

Legal Drinking Age

In the U.S., the minimum age of 21 to buy, possess, or consume alcohol.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

School rule that bans students from activities or enrollment if caught with alcohol.

Alcohol-Related Traffic Accident

A crash involving a driver impaired by alcohol; about 37 U.S. deaths daily.

Violent Crime and Alcohol

Higher likelihood of fights, rape, aggravated assault, or robbery when alcohol is involved.

Acquaintance Rape Statistic

About 90 % of rapes are committed by someone the victim knows.

Teen Sexual Activity and Alcohol

Alcohol lowers inhibitions, making teens more likely to start sex earlier or take risks.

STD Risk Increase

Teens who drink are twice as likely to contract a sexually transmitted disease.

Family Consequences of Alcohol Abuse

Neglect, abuse, economic hardship, and a four-fold risk that children will later abuse alcohol.

Health Benefits of Abstaining

Avoid brain and organ damage and reduce injury risk.

Relationship Benefits of Abstaining

Allows honesty without the strain of hiding alcohol use.

Healthy Decision-Making

Clear judgment that protects against drunk driving or risky sex.

Goal Achievement

Staying focused on short- and long-term plans without alcohol interference.

Refusal Skills

Practiced statements and actions used to say no to alcohol offers.

Alcohol-Free Activities

Planned social events that do not involve drinking.

Plan Ahead

Preparing refusal statements before facing peer offers of alcohol.

Youth Detention Consequence

Possible legal penalty for minors caught with alcohol.

Reputation Damage

Loss of trust and limited college or employment options due to underage drinking.

Alcohol Dependence Risk Factor

Teens who start drinking by age 15 are six times more likely to become dependent than those who start at 21.