The majority of American citizens can honestly say that they, or a loved one, have personally been a victim of the dangerous side effects of alcohol. Yet alcohol is still considered a recreational drink, which too many people take for granted. Alcohol addiction is officially labeled “alcoholism.” Alcoholism can affect a person's life in numerous ways. It is an overlooked danger in the United States that can negatively affect young Americans and the economy, which is why it poses a huge danger to the United States. While alcoholism is not necessarily limited to one demographic, the prevalence of alcoholism, especially among underage drinkers, appears to be of growing concern. In the last five years alone, alcohol consumption among minors has seen a surprising and quite significant increase. For example, in 2009, approximately 59.3% of high school students had consumed alcohol. The same survey, conducted in 2014, showed that 65.7% had participated in alcohol consumption, despite being underage (Whillenburg 3). So why the increase in consumption in such a short space of time? Some tentative conclusions have emerged in response to the rapidly growing numbers. Research has shown that the absence of a parental figure within the family has proven to be an effective catalyst in encouraging young people to participate in what would otherwise be considered reckless behavior. An additional explanation for alcohol use by an underage demographic may be self-justification, created by youth, based on parental observation. If a teenager actively participated in alcohol consumption, in an attempt to emulate the actions of his parents, then, psychologically, that action would provide much more credibility. The harmful effect of unde...... middle of paper .. ....costs $223.5 billion." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, October 17, 2011. Web. April 17, 2014.Catanzaro, Ronald J. Alcoholism: The Total Treatment Approach. Springfield, IL: Thomas, 1968. Print.Heilig Markus. “The Right Medicine for Alcoholism” Washington Post [Washington ] August 30, 2013: page no. Smith, Melinda “Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse: Signs, Symptoms, and Help for Alcoholism.” Helpguide helps you help yourself and others. NP, August 2013. Web. March 31, 2014. Swartzwelder, Scott H. “Fact Sheets - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,” January 16, 2014. Web. April 16, 2014. Torr, James D. Teens and Alcoholism. New York Times [New York] March 20, 2011: print no.