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Gender differences in alcohol consumption and adverse drinking consequences: cross-cultural patterns
R W Wilsnack1, N D Vogeltanz, S C Wilsnack
1University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Grand Forks 58202-9037, USA.
Addiction (Abingdon, England)
|March 21, 2000
Summary
Men consistently drink more frequently and in larger quantities than women, and experience more adverse alcohol-related consequences. While overall drinking rates are similar, women are more likely to be lifetime abstainers. Gender roles and societal factors influence these drinking behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Cross-cultural research
- Alcohol studies
- Gender studies
Background:
- Understanding global gender differences in alcohol consumption is crucial.
- Previous research indicates variations in drinking patterns between men and women.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the consistency and variability of gender differences in drinking behavior across diverse cultures.
- To analyze international survey data on alcohol consumption patterns.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 16 general population surveys from 10 countries.
- Utilized comparable measures for drinking status, frequency, quantity, heavy episodic drinking, intoxication, and alcohol-related problems.
- Data analyzed by the International Research Group on Gender and Alcohol.
Main Results:
- Men consistently drank more frequently and in larger quantities than women.
- Men reported higher rates of heavy episodic drinking and adverse alcohol-related consequences.
- Women were more likely to be lifetime abstainers, though overall current drinking rates were similar.
- Older adults reduced alcohol quantities and increased abstention, but drinking frequency did not consistently change with age.
Conclusions:
- Gender roles may amplify biological differences in alcohol response.
- Macrosocial factors influencing gender role contrasts can modify gender differences in drinking behavior.
- Findings highlight the complex interplay of biological, social, and cultural factors in shaping alcohol consumption.
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