The findings of a new study show that there might be a link between the amount of time teenagers spend using computers and their use of alcohol.

These results, which appear in the journal Addictive Behaviors, are based on the responses of 264 U.S. teenagers, who were between the ages of 13 and 17 and were asked to complete an anonymous survey.

Based on the teenage participants' responses, those who reported drinking within the last month also used the computer more hours per week than those who did not consume alcohol. The use of social networking websites and downloading music were also associated with drinking.

Despite these findings, there is no clear reasoning behind the link between computer use and alcohol consumption. However, the researchers believe that teenagers are being exposed to alcohol advertising and images of peers drinking on social networking websites. It is possible that both factors could play a role in reinforcing underage drinking.

According to the researchers behind the study, parents should reinforce specific rules regarding alcohol and computer use.

Private boarding schools may be able to provide treatment for teenagers who have developed a drinking problem.