UNDERAGE DRINKING PREVENTION AND AWARENESS

PCSAC conducted an environmental scan focusing on alcohol messaging, alcohol use and access, and tobacco use.  The purpose of the scan was to observe social mechanisms that influence behavior — in this case alcohol and tobacco consumption — and to interpret the information to better understand a behavioral trend. The scan was conducted concurrent with the Chicagoland Popcorn Festival and Parade held on Saturday September 11, 2021, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. by PCSAC’s coalitions –LCC, Valparaiso, Chesterton, and Portage. Seven volunteers collected 61 alcohol and 26 tobacco impressions. 

ALCOHOL - Findings of the environmental scan for alcohol consumption and signage revealed a high density of uncontrolled consumption in primary locations visited by both youth and adults during the whole event. Not only are children and youth exposed to normalized alcohol consumption by adults, but they are also exposed to high density alcohol marketing through multiple and large manufacturers’ signs. The conditions observed by this environmental scan can be construed as a major contributor to increased underage alcohol consumption during this event with residual behavioral affects lasting up to 12 months. 

 TOBACCO - The environmental scan unveiled a high density of consumption in primary locations around the event venue. Older adults smoking was the primary population and method.  Additional younger adults were not seen smoking but rather all were vaping. These results mirror national trends. 

For a copy of the full report contact us at (219) 280-5252.