NCJ Number
225679
Journal
Drugs; Education, Prevention and Policy Volume: 15 Issue: 5 Dated: October 2008 Pages: 475-486
Date Published
October 2008
Length
12 pages
Annotation
In an attempt to draw lessons for policy, this paper sets the phenomenon of binge drinking in its historical context by examining how the nature and definition of binge drinking has changed over time.
Abstract
Binge drinking is not new to British society and has not always attracted disapproval. In the past, it is clear that, despite differences in the specific social contexts within which policy concerns are framed, there are similarities between contemporary alarm regarding patterns of alcohol consumption and the concerns giving rise to ‘moral panics’ in past times. The literature review revealed a plethora of different definitions and degree of confusion about what is meant by term ‘binge drinking’. Key episodes such as the ‘gin craze’ of the 18th century show that the social responses were based on the problem but also focused on some aspects such as consumption by the poor which were not necessarily the most important. Similarly, the current perception of binge drinking as a problem of young people in public places recognizes a phenomenon but foregrounds it to the detriment of other areas of increased alcohol consumption, such as in the family and at home. Binge drinking is a matter of current social, media, and political concern. Within current debates binge drinking is sometimes portrayed as a recent phenomenon, but in fact it has a history and concern about binge drinking is not new. This paper first looks at the origins of the concept of binge drinking and associated behaviors in former historical periods and considers whether binge drinking is embedded in British culture. It then considers government responses to concerns about binge drinking and illustrates the confusion surrounding past and recent uses of the term. The paper concludes by considering whether the interaction of social science and historical perspectives are a useful tool for learning lessons from the past. A literature review was conducted and a workshop which brought researchers, policymakers, and practitioners together considered current perceptions of binge drinking, current responses, and potential future approaches. Notes, references