Citation

Brissett D. Pac. Sociol. Rev. 1978; 21(1): 3-20.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1978, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.2307/1388864

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Few people would quarrel with the notion that the prevalence of heavy drinking in American society constitutes a serious problem. That approximately 1.5 million people in the USA are classified as "chronic alcoholics" and that about 7.5 million more people drink to the point of significantly interfering with their lives (AMA, 1973) are clear indications that heavy drinking is indeed a social problem of considerable magnitude in this society.

This paper presents an interactionist model for understanding heavy drinking. An alternative to the "negative" perspective on heavy drinking is espoused. The meaningful consequences of heavy drinking are examined in the context of (1) identity and self-worth, (2) continuity and periodization, (3) personalization and play, and (4) conventions, interactions, and social solidarity.