Women's alcohol dependence and abuse: the relation to social network and leisure time

Author(s): Granbom, S., Allebeck, P.

Journal/Book: Scand J Public Health. 1999; 27: PO Box 2959 Toyen, Journal Division Customer Service, N-0608 Oslo, Norway. Scandinavian University Press. 30-37.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to analyse the occurrence of alcohol dependence and abuse in relation to variables reflecting social network and leisure time, social class, education, occupation and family conditions. The study was based on the second wave of interviews performed within the longitudinal study of Women and Alcohol in Goteborg. In this present study we: analysed 416 face-to-face interviews performed in 1995 - 96. Women with only one or no friends for support had higher rates of alcohol dependence and abuse than did women with more friends. Women with high rates of alcohol dependence or abuse did not take part in cultural events as much as women with low rates of alcohol dependence and abuse. Women with homemaking skills and gardening as leisure time interests had lower prevalences of alcohol dependence and abuse. In general, women with diagnoses of alcohol dependence and abuse in this population-based sample were not done and without a social network. However, their pattern of activity differed slightly from those without such diagnoses. The association between women with alcohol dependence and abuse and leisure time activities is probably circular: a poor social network and low participation in social activities increase the risk of alcohol dependence and abuse, and alcohol dependence and abuse lead to low participation in social activities.

Note: Article Thundal KL, Vasa Hosp, Dept Social Med, SE-41133 Gothenburg, SWEDEN

Keyword(s): DRINKING BEHAVIORS; POPULATION; SUPPORT

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