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Binge drinking: an exploration of a confused concept
R Herring1, V Berridge, B Thom
1Centre for History in Public Health, The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK. rachel.herring@lshtm.ac.uk
Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health
|May 15, 2008
Summary
Binge drinking, often viewed as a youth problem, has historical roots in British society. This paper questions the current concept of binge drinking and its definitions, suggesting further research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Social Science
- Public Health
- History
Background:
- Binge drinking is a significant concern in the UK, linked to individual and community harms.
- Current discourse often frames binge drinking as a youth-specific issue.
- Historical evidence indicates heavy drinking has long been prevalent in British society.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the concept of binge drinking from a contemporary historical perspective.
- To examine current definitions of binge drinking and their evolution.
- To analyze how varying definitions influence perceptions of binge drinking.
Main Methods:
- Historical analysis of binge drinking concepts.
- Review of contemporary definitions and their shifts.
- Examination of the impact of definitions on public perception.
Main Results:
- Binge drinking is not a recent phenomenon but has historical precedents.
- Definitions of binge drinking vary and have shifted over time.
- The chosen definition significantly impacts how binge drinking is perceived.
Conclusions:
- The current concept of binge drinking may be limited in its usefulness.
- Further research is needed to refine our understanding and approach to binge drinking.
- Critical examination of definitions is crucial for effective policy and public understanding.
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