Substance use and abuse
Safe Use of Alcohol
Interview with Jane Bowman, Manager of the Office of Alcohol and Drug Education
The use of alcohol may be more regulated in the U.S. than in some countries. There is a legal drinking age of 21, which means that no one under that age may legally obtain or consume alcohol. It is routine for a bar or restaurant serving alcohol to ask for proof of age before serving young adults. There are also laws against public intoxication and consumption of alcohol, even if someone is of the legal drinking age. Jane Bowman, Manager of the Office of Alcohol and Drug Education, explains these issues further.
Many students come from countries where there is no minimum age for drinking alcohol. Why is the United States so conservative in this area?
There are long-standing disagreements within the U.S. about the potential harmfulness of alcohol, both as its own substance and in comparison to other drugs. Over time, various measures have been taken to discourage alcohol use by young people and by those who drive cars. The debate continues about what the drinking age should be and even about what the purpose of having a drinking age is. The drinking age in the United States is 21.
What kind of proof do people normally offer of their age?
People usually show a driver's license as proof of age. A college ID does not suffice, as it does not include age. Another acceptable form of ID is a passport.
Does the age limit include beer?
The 21-year-old drinking age applies to all forms of alcohol including beer, wine and spirits such as vodka, rum and scotch.
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