Which of the following best describes the gender gap in alcohol use among teenagers?

• A. Historically, teenage boys have reported higher rates of alcohol use than teenage girls, but recent trends show the gap is narrowing.
• B. Teenage boys and girls have both shown a dramatic decrease in alcohol use, with the gap widening in favor of boys.
• C. There is no measurable difference in alcohol use between teenage boys and girls.
• D. Teenage girls have always reported significantly higher rates of alcohol use than teenage boys.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of the 'gender gap' in alcohol use, which refers to the differences in alcohol consumption rates between male and female teenagers.
2. Review historical data and research findings that show patterns of alcohol use among teenage boys and girls over time.
3. Recognize that traditionally, teenage boys have reported higher rates of alcohol use compared to teenage girls.
4. Examine recent trends indicating that the difference in alcohol use between boys and girls is becoming smaller, meaning the gap is narrowing.
5. Conclude that the best description of the gender gap in teenage alcohol use is that historically boys drank more, but recent data show the gap is closing.