A Griffith University researcher is helping Mount Isa teens and their parents debunk myths about alcohol as part of an innovative education program.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Blurred Minds, the brainchild of Social Marketing @ Griffith, uses video games and virtual reality to engage teens and delivers valuable information for parents and caregivers via an interactive presentation.
Program presenter Dr Timo Dietrich said research suggests that multi-component programs targeting both students and parents are more effective in delaying alcohol use than stand-alone student programs.
“Parents play a key role in shaping their child’s attitudes, expectations and alcohol behaviours,” Timo Dietrich said.
“They’re able to influence their children through the way they act, the way they communicate and the kinds of rules they set.
“Research shows that parental supply is associated with higher levels of alcohol use in the future. Teenagers are less likely to drink if their parents disapprove.”
Dr Dietrich presented the Blurred Minds Parent Program at Good Shepherd Catholic College where he busted some alcohol related myths and shared tips with parents on how to have conversations with teens that they may actually take on board.
The parent program will follow the student program earlier in the day which includes the use of beer goggles, virtual reality headsets, online games and ‘passing out’ to help students understand the realities of alcohol use.
“Students engage in a number of online games, including ‘Deso Driver’ which allows them to explore how booze affects their vision and driving skills,” Dr Dietrich said.
“Another game, The Alcohol Trivia Show, puts students in the role of a game show contestant, answering questions surrounding standard drinks, alcohol myths, social norms and blood alcohol concentration”
Dr Dietrich said the most recent statistics from the National Drug Strategy Household Survey show that young people drink less, smoke less and use fewer illicit drugs than previous generations.
“More than 80% of teens aged 12-17 are now abstaining from drinking alcohol, compared to 72% in 2013. ” he said.
“Our youngest generation wants to live more consciously, not turn off their brain with an intense binge drinking session.”