Autos, Alkohol, und Alter

        In Germany, laws concerning morality are based more on the individual rather than the youth as a whole, when compared to the United States. This allows for cultural differences to occur. Also, it could be said that responsibility for youth in Germany is given little by little throughout their teenage years, whereas in America, turning 18 is a huge milestone and in many cases, can be a shock to their lifestyles. 

        German youth are given freedoms throughout their adolescence; drinking with parents and the ability to obtain a job at an earlier age. Looking specifically at drinking, learning from their parents helps to show moderation. Also, youth in Germany are expected to make better decisions when given these responsibilities. More trust is put in them, and in doing so, youth are taught how to make decisions on their own. Youth in America are not allowed to drink. Drinking is a tough topic, and for most parents in the US, is either black or white. Because of this, youth are not shown moderation and tend to do things such as getting "plastered" and so forth. Not only that, it is a well-known thing that at 18, youth in America are essentially "on their own", many of which are expected to get jobs and attend college. At this age it is a fine balancing act between work, play, and keeping one's sanity.
        One thing I did find interesting is that adolescent abortion rates and pregnancies are lower in Germany. Not only that, but HIV was significantly lower in Germany. A main reason for this is that Germans have access to and use contraceptives more. It is believed that America's lack of comfort discussing these topics which puts America at high rates.

        Perhaps it would be best if American parents didn't treat teenagers as children. Then overnight, like some miracle, they're expected to become and adult and go off on their own. A huge reason for this problem is America's resisting to be open about touchy subject such as drinking and sex. Because no one is talking about it, teens are not learning options and consequences until, sometimes, it's too late.

http://www.advocatesforyouth.org

http://resources.prev.org