In general, do you think the recent rise of teen sobriety across America due to various factors is a positive or negative trend?

Positive (73%) – "No matter what the reason is. Not drinking alcohol in adolescence is positive. The late bloomers, need to be motivated to socialize though. Activities, hobbies, non alcoholic beverages hangout spots need to be gaining popularity for every generation."

• "Positive trend but need more mental health supports in schools, and less social media. Seems addiction is social media now."

"It’s great that kids are drinking less because there is a level of responsibility that comes with drinking that most teens don’t possess. However, it is genuinely worrisome that kids are not socializing and gathering in ways that allow them to build community and connection. There are important life lessons that kids are missing out on and the lack of interaction with peers means that fewer and fewer young people will go out into the world equipped with the skill set necessary to function effectively as adults."

• "The teens are also becoming more religious than their parents. It seems today’s teens are looking for purpose that can’t be found in alcohol or drugs. Good for them!"

"If you have a brain, you would understand that there is a drinking age limit for a reason. Also, how about the science? The facts are VERY clear. Drinking is not beneficial on the whole. A drink once in a while is all that should be allowed."

• "Positive from the sobriety standpoint, but the cause for this is not all good. Sobriety is taking hold because Gen Z is socializing on screen, as the article points out. What the article is not pointing out is that the lack of socialization is also a growing source of mental health issues created by their lack of face-to-face skills."

"Drugs and alcohol kids don’t need and thankfully they are getting the message. Only problem I can see is if they become obsessed on the weight loss and energy drinks. I hope they stay healthy and start fighting for a cleaner world good luck kids it’s your choice to be healthy and to live in a safe environment."

Negative (16%) – "While there is risks associated with underage drinking, today's youth are not having the opportunity to get into trouble or higher risk situations. This means they are not able to learn to problem solve in the real world and learn to use judgment."

• "I don't have a negative view of sobriety itself but of the trends driving it. It's concerning that they are spending less time socializing and more time on screens, and it's troubling that they're so risk-averse because this points to a feel of failure and vulnerability, which can stagnate growth. I also don't love that much of the trend is driven by social media because it indicates influence rather than crtiical thinking."

Unsure/other (11%) – "I think it’s hard to categorize teen sobriety as strictly good or bad. On one hand, it’s probably better for our health and development. On the other hand, drinking is a moment of social bonding. I can see the distinction very clearly in my own friend group; I’m the only one out of maybe nine 19 year olds that does drink, and even then, it’s just a couple glasses every couple months. No one wants to drink with me and that makes it boring. That then discourages me from inviting my friends over to play games and drink. The only people that are happy to drink with me are my parents, and as much as I love them, I would have way more fun if I could get a friend or two to join me."