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Social separation increases alcohol consumption in rhesus monkeys
Psychopharmacology
|January 1, 1985
Summary
Social separation increases alcohol consumption in rhesus monkeys, with individual differences in drinking behavior observed. These findings suggest a link between social stress, attachment, and alcohol abuse vulnerability.
Area of Science:
- Primate behavior
- Neurobiology
- Addiction research
Background:
- Social separation is a significant stressor in primates.
- Understanding factors influencing alcohol consumption is crucial for addiction research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test if social separation increases alcohol consumption in juvenile rhesus monkeys.
- To investigate individual differences in alcohol intake related to social separation.
Main Methods:
- 16 juvenile rhesus monkeys were subjected to intermittent or continuous social separation.
- Alcohol (6% w/v) was offered after fluid deprivation.
- Consumption rates were measured during separation and social housing.
- Effects of non-deprivation and choice availability were assessed.
Main Results:
- Intermittently separated monkeys drank significantly more alcohol than when socially housed.
- Stable individual differences in alcohol consumption emerged, independent of water or vehicle intake.
- Consumption rates were not affected by non-deprivation or choice availability.
Conclusions:
- Social separation promotes alcohol consumption in rhesus monkeys.
- Individual predisposition to alcohol consumption may be linked to social attachment mechanisms.
- Findings suggest a neurobiological connection between social stress and alcohol abuse vulnerability in primates.
