Peer pressure is another major factor that can lead to adolescent alcohol abuse. Usually, during adolescence, teenagers spend more time with their friends than with their family. Teenagers can't escape peer pressure, and most people have to experience it at some point in their lives. The teenage years are definitely some of the most difficult years of a person's life. Fitting in and being popular are major factors in some people's high school careers. No one wants to be rejected or lose a friend over a simple matter of drinking; thus, he or she may give in to peer pressure. When everyone is drinking at a party, no teenager wants to be left out or made fun of. The influence of others definitely affects the decisions a teenager makes. It can be difficult to resist peer pressure, but the effects of alcohol should be kept in mind. Drinking even small amounts can lead to hangovers, liver disease and even death. Every year, approximately 14,000 American teenagers die due to excessive drinking or driving under the influence. Additionally, peer pressure can also be positive. Not all teenagers drink; therefore, those who refrain from doing so may encourage their friends to stop drinking or not start drinking at all. Peer pressure can encourage drinking, but staying strong and being mindful of the risk of alcohol abuse will help a teen abstain from alcohol.