Drinking habits in Spain?

Question

Hi! I have some interesting questions about this text that I wrote (http://www.spanishdict.com/answers/224597/help-correcting-text)...

1. Why do you think kids begin to drink at those ages? --- Español: ¿Por qué crees que los niños comienzan a beber a esas edades?

2. Then, why do you think that some establishments continue selling alcohol, even though there's the possibility to be caughted and get a fine? Are there any historical reasons for this, perhaps? --- Español: ¿Por qué crees que algunos establecimientos continúan vendiendo alcohol sí existe la posibilidad de que los descubran y los multen?

3. What could be done to stop the sell of alcohol (to children)? --- Español: ¿Qué se puede hacer para evitar que consigan el alcohol?

Hope you can help me answer these question! It's easier to ask people who are from Spain I think! /Karin

Are you asking people for their opinions on these questions? Or do you want someone to proofread the Spanish translations? - Paralee, Feb 28, 2012

Hi Paralee! - Kakke, Feb 28, 2012

I don't need someone to proofread the translations of the questions... I would very much like people's opinions on these questions. Spanish people know more about spanish way of thinking and how things are concerning drinking in Spain. :) - Kakke, Feb 28, 2012

Okay, great. I think when I saw your post last, it was in the Vocabulary category, so I wasn't sure. - Paralee, Feb 28, 2012

Grammatical error in number two: "Get caught and be fined" - missy8888, Mar 2, 2012

Answer 1

I think the questions are quite tricky to answer.

1. In my opinion most of the youngsters begin drinking, because it is associated with adulthood in western societies. You can see it at almost every social gathering that alcohol is involved and as we might know childs/teens want to be treated as adults and also want to be able doing the things involved. On the other side it is also considered to "be cool" or its the thrill of doing something illegal. And once you tasted it - one have to admit - you will most likely like the effect of alcohol, no matter how old you are.

2. I think there isn't really a historical reason for that. In my opinion it's more related to convenience and the speed of service. People just often don't check the ID because it takes time...

3. Honestly I don't really think that there is an effective mean to prevent children from drinking. As I think that is the main point of your question. Of course you can try to prevent it being sold to children through a higher level of control and more severe penalties. But in the end it will not prevent them from drinking.

I think that sums it up... - annierats, Feb 29, 2012

Answer 2

From your name I take it you're Scandinavian and used to Systembolaget ( a state regulated outlet for alchohol).

I'm not Spanish but I think your questions apply to most European countries. The problems are exactly the same in England. Supermarkets sell alcohol and under age drinking is the norm.

Every Saturday night young revellers stagger about both in England and in Spain. I think it is more that they lack motivation in life than that they want to be plastered permanently.

I have no idea how to tackle the problem.