Review article
Alcohol use: social aspect, gender differences and stigmatization
Slađana Dragišić Labaš
; University of Belgrade, Faculty of Philosophy
Abstract
Gender differences in alcohol consumption, that have been present and maintained for years are now being changed, particularly in countries going through the transition, and women are crossing the risk boundaries and coming closer in alcohol consumption to man. The abuse of alcohol and other substances in the last two decades has increased, especially in the young population, and among the stigmatized groups. The aim of this paper was to, through some sociological theories and epidemiological data, review possible factors affecting the mental health of women and men as well as abuse and alcohol dependence in terms of gender differences. Method - Review of sociological, socio-psychological and psychiatric studies dealing with gender dimensions of use, abuse and dependence on alcohol, its consequences and the level of stigmatization. Despite the results based on gender differences in the level of consumption, patterns of drinking and alcohol types, the consequences are similar at all levels of functioning - mental and physical, social, family, marital and professional. Gender differences in the use of alcohol and other PAS and alcohol dependence are reduced at the beginning of 21st century compared to the entire 20th century. Similar levels of alcohol use and addiction in men and women have not conditioned less stigmatization of female addicts, but they appear to be more stigmatized during the period of drinking and men living in traditional cultures during the period of treatment and abstinence. Negative stereotypes about male and female addicts are influenced strongly by social politics and social activities to reduce the stigma and allocate treatment funds.
Keywords
alcohol use; alcohol abuse; gender differences; stigmatization
Hrčak ID:
160023
URI
Publication date:
16.6.2016.
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