There’s nothing quite like a glass of wine at the end of a long day, and as busy parents, it’s one of those not-so-guilty pleasures that we look forward to again and again.
Sadly, however, researchers behind a new study have just gone and ruined it for us!
According to research released by the Institute of Alcohol Studies (IAS), just being a little ‘tipsy’ around your children could have a negative impact on them.
The study report, titled ‘Like sugar for adults: The effect of non-dependent parental drinking on children and families’, found that being even a little drunk in front of your children can make them feel uncomfortable, embarrassed and worried.
The researchers analysed data from an online survey of 1,000 parents and their children, along with information from focus groups and a public enquiry with relevant practitioners.
From the research, the team found that over half of those parents surveyed could admit to being ‘tipsy’ in front of their children.
When the researchers analysed the impact their tipsy behaviour had on their children, they discovered the following:
- 18% had felt embarrassed
- 11% had felt worried
- 15% said their regular bedtime had been disrupted
- 12% reported that their parents were less attentive
- 8% noticed that their parents were more unpredictable
- 7% had noticed that their parents were more argumentative than usual
Commenting on the research, IAS Chief Executive Katherine Brown said: “All parents strive to do what’s best for their children, so it’s important to share this research about the effects drinking can have on parenting, and what steps parents can take to protect their children.
She added that, with ‘a barrage of marketing messages that glamorise drinking’, parents need all the help they can get in teaching children of the negative impact of alcohol.
“Hopefully this study will help inform guidance that enables parents to make fully informed choices about their own drinking in front of their children.”
We hope we haven’t just spoiled your daily tipple, mums!
