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The relationship between emotional state and alcohol consumption
1NOVA Research Company, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.
The International Journal of the Addictions
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Emotional states significantly influence alcohol consumption, with age being a key factor. Different emotions correlate with the amounts of beer, wine, and spirits consumed by American drinkers.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Alcohol Studies
Background:
- Understanding the psychological and social factors influencing alcohol consumption is crucial for public health.
- Previous research has explored the link between mood and drinking behavior, but comprehensive analysis across various emotional states and beverage types is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between 10 distinct emotional states and the quantity of specific alcoholic beverages consumed.
- To identify the influence of mediating variables, particularly age, on the affect-alcohol consumption relationship.
Main Methods:
- A national probability sample of 1,069 American drinkers (aged 21+) was surveyed in November 1986.
- Respondents reported on their emotional state during their last drinking episode and the amount of beer, wine, distilled spirits, and/or wine coolers consumed.
Main Results:
- Age was identified as the most influential mediating variable affecting the relationship between emotional states and alcohol consumption.
- For every type of alcoholic beverage studied (beer, wine, spirits, wine coolers), at least one emotional state showed a significant correlation with the amount consumed.
Conclusions:
- Emotional states are significantly associated with the amount of alcohol consumed, with age playing a critical role.
- These findings highlight the complex interplay between affect, demographics, and drinking patterns, informing targeted public health interventions.