Tipsy teens

The illegal sales of alcoholic beverages to minors are moving smoother than the booze being purchased.

No questions were asked - literally. The money was just collected and the alcoholic beverages delivered to the children, some of whom were wearing their school uniform at the time of the purchase.

In the words immortalised by super sleuth Adrian Monk from the hit television series, Monk, "Here's what happened:"

Effects of alcohol use on teens

Decreases teens' ability to pay attention.

The younger a person is when he/she begins to drink, the more likely he/she is to become an alcoholic.

Teens who drink are more likely to engage in sexual activity, have unprotected sex, or have sex with a stranger.

Excess alcohol use can cause or mask other emotional problems, like anxiety or depression.

Drinking in excess can lead to the use of other drugs, like marijuana, cocaine, or heroin.

What leads a teen to drink

Low parent supervision

or communication

Family conflicts

Inconsistent or severe parental discipline

Family history of alcohol or drug abuse

Emotional instability

Thrill-seeking behaviours

Signs of alcohol abuse

Lying

Making excuses

Breaking curfew

Withdrawing

Becoming verbally or physically abusive

Having alcohol paraphernalia

Mood swings

Stealing

Changes in friends.

-MedicineNet.com