Family Meals May Reduce Teens' Alcohol and Drug Use

A study of 2,090 U.S. adolescents found higher-quality family dinners were associated with a 22% to 34% lower reported risk of alcohol, vaping and marijuana use; the link was not seen among teens with four or more adverse childhood experiences.

New research reports that regular family dinners are linked with lower teen substance use. The study surveyed 2,090 U.S. adolescents ages 12 to 17 and their parents and assessed meal quality and recent substance use. Higher-quality meals — described as having open communication, no digital distractions and enjoyment — were associated with reduced alcohol, vaping and marijuana use. Lead researcher Margie Skeer of Tufts University described the effect as tied to parent-child interaction rather than specific foods or timing. Key findings: - The study sample included 2,090 U.S. adolescents aged 12 to 17 and their parents. - Researchers used a standard questionnaire to assess family meal quality and asked about alcohol, marijuana and vaping in the previous six months. - Higher-quality family meals were linked to a 22% to 34% lower reported risk of alcohol use, up to a 30% lower risk of vaping, and up to a 34% lower risk of marijuana use. - Teens who had experienced four or more adverse childhood events showed no significant benefit from regular family dinners; such events include divorce, physical or sexual violence, a family member who uses substances, a family member with mental health disorder, or being shamed about weight. - Researchers noted that adolescents with higher levels of childhood trauma may need more targeted, trauma-informed supports and that future research should explore other shared family rituals or routines. Summary: The study suggests routine, higher-quality family meals are associated with lower reported substance use among most adolescents. The protective link did not appear for teens with four or more adverse childhood experiences. Researchers identified trauma-informed supports and investigation of other family routines as areas for future study.