Television ‘Soap’ Characters Encourage Teen Alcoholism, Says
RCGP Chair
29th January
2009
“TV soap operas need to take more
responsibility for how they portray alcohol,” says Professor Steve
Field, Chairman of the Royal College of General
Practitioners.
His comments come in response to the
Government and Chief Medical Officer's consultation on Children,
Young People and Alcohol guidelines.
“These shows are hugely popular with young
people and help to glamourise drinking. So many scenes are set in
pubs with major characters drinking heavily, despite being
broadcast before the 9pm watershed time.”
“The UK has a major issue with young people
and alcohol abuse. We welcome this consultation as a way of raising
awareness of the serious harm and health problems that alcohol can
cause.”
“Alcohol can have a major impact on the mental
and physical development of young people. As GPs we see the damage
to individuals and their families caused by alcohol abuse probably
more than any other group of healthcare professionals.”
“There are a number of reasons why young
people drink. Peer pressure plays a part, as does the impact of
television and role models who glamourise drinking.”
For more information please contact the RCGP
Press Office.
Press Office: 020 7344 3136
Out of hours: 07885 958 632
Email: press@rcgp.org.uk