[Alcohol abuse in children and adolescents]

There is a strong increase in the misuse of alcoholics by children and adolescents. The different phases of development towards an adolescent alcoholic are discussed. Possible causes are shown. It is especially important that children with minimal cerebral dysfunction seem to be more inclined to a later development towards alcoholism. Identification with the adult world seems to be the main reason for adolescents to drink alcohol excessively. Methods of identifying young alcoholics are discussed, preventive methods are shown. A discussion of therapeutical possibilities follows.