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Alcohol and caffeine use by social phobics: an initial inquiry into drinking patterns and behavior
C Holle1, R G Heimberg, R A Sweet
1Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York 12205, USA.
Behaviour Research and Therapy
|June 1, 1995
Summary
Social phobics consume less alcohol typically but intend to drink more in social settings. They also show reduced intent for caffeinated coffee during meetings compared to controls.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Social phobia is characterized by fear of embarrassment and negative evaluation.
- Individuals with social phobia may alter substance intake (alcohol, caffeine) to manage anxiety in social situations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate differences in alcohol and caffeine consumption patterns between individuals with social phobia and community controls.
- To examine typical weekly quantities and situational use of alcohol and caffeine in social contexts.
Main Methods:
- Self-report questionnaire assessing alcohol and caffeine consumption.
- Comparison of social phobics and community controls on typical and greatest weekly intake.
- Analysis of situational alcohol and caffeine use in threatening and non-threatening social scenarios.
Main Results:
- Social phobics reported lower typical weekly beverage consumption overall.
- Individuals with social phobia consumed less wine and liqueur but similar amounts of caffeinated beverages.
- Social phobics showed greater intent to consume alcohol in social situations with strangers and less intent to consume caffeinated coffee in meetings.
Conclusions:
- Social phobia is associated with distinct patterns of alcohol and caffeine use, particularly in social contexts.
- Findings suggest individuals with social phobia may use alcohol strategically in certain social situations.
- Gender differences in substance use within specific situations warrant further investigation.