In the 20th century, young people have been seen maturing earlier, physically, psycho-socially, and intellectually. During the same time, however, there have been indications of a deferment of adulthood. Modern adult life has become more complex and demanding, and seems to require a longer preparatory phase. Perhaps, the earlier maturation of western youth makes them more vulnerable to the shady sides of adult life at a younger age, such as alcohol and drug abuse.

Evidence seems unequivocal that adolescents in Western societies drink more now than decades ago. This has raised concerns in several countries, translated in calls for action, such as an increase in the age limits on drinking. One could argue that these, mostly, adult concerns are fueled by this contradictory trend of adolescents maturing earlier, but growing up later. A concentrated drinking pattern has been a quite stable characteristic among the young in Western cultures. The term ‘binge drinking’ has been increasingly used to denote such episodic, heavy, concentrated drinking pattern. Increasing trends in drinking and adverse consequences particularly among young people have sensitized the research community, politicians, and the general public.

KBS is happy to announce the intention of four Dutch institutes, collaborating in the IVO-consortium, and Trimbos Institute (Utrecht) to organise a 3-day, so called KBS-thematic meeting on the topic of ‘Episodic heavy drinking among adolescents’.

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