List date(s) this work was published or aired.
December 2011/January 2012
Provide a brief synopsis of the story or stories, including any significant findings.
Binge drinking not only increases the risk of fatal car accidents, irresponsible sexual behavior, and acute alcohol poisoning, but it can also have long-term–perhaps irreversible–effects on the teenage brain. Adolescents can drink far more than adults before they get sleepy enough to stop. They are also less sensitive to certain post-intoxication “hangover” effects, which often help curb drinking in adults. What’s more, the latest research suggests that binge drinking during adolescence could lead to premature memory loss.
Explain types of documents, data or Internet resources used. Were FOI or public records act requests required? How did this affect the work?
The author reviewed research studies, interviewed the foremost experts in the field and cited statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to support information presented in the piece.
Explain types of human sources used.
The author interviewed researchers and neurologists who specialize in teenage brain development. She also spoke with a young adult who drank heavily during his teenage years.
Results:
N/A
Follow-up (if any). Have you run a correction or clarification on the report or has anyone come forward to challenge its accuracy? If so, please explain.
No
Advice to other journalists planning a similar story or project.
Do your research to identify the top experts in the field, and find a family who has been affected by the disease or disorder to add a general interest/human component.