Should MLDA be lowered back to 18?
Here are some pros and cons on why the age should be lowered back to 18:
PROS:
Lowering MLDA 21 to 18 would allow 18- to 20-year-olds to drink alcohol safely in regulated environments with supervision. Prohibiting this age group from drinking in bars, restaurants, and other licensed locations causes them to drink in unsupervised places such as fraternity houses or house parties where they may be more prone to binge drinking and other unsafe behavior. |
CONS:
Lowering MLDA 21 would be medically irresponsible because the brain's frontal lobes, essential for functions such as emotional regulation, planning, and organization, continue to develop through adolescence and young adulthood. Alcohol consumption can interfere with this development, potentially causing chronic problems such as greater vulnerability to addiction, dangerous risk-taking behavior, reduced decision-making ability, memory loss, depression, violence, and suicide. |
THIS IS WHAT I THINK:
In my opinion, I do not agree with lowering the drinking age. The reason I don't is because when you're 18, your brain is not fully developed which causes medical issues in the brain. Although lowering the drinking age would allow safer drinking, it should not be done. The main reason is because alcohol consumption can interfere with brain development, potentially causes chronic problems such as greater vulnerability to addiction, dangerous risk-taking behaviors, reduced decision making ability, etc.
In my opinion, I do not agree with lowering the drinking age. The reason I don't is because when you're 18, your brain is not fully developed which causes medical issues in the brain. Although lowering the drinking age would allow safer drinking, it should not be done. The main reason is because alcohol consumption can interfere with brain development, potentially causes chronic problems such as greater vulnerability to addiction, dangerous risk-taking behaviors, reduced decision making ability, etc.
Sources:
To learn more go to:
http://drinkingage.procon.org/
(OR LINK TO PRO/CON WEBSITE:)
procon.org