The United States Department of Agriculture reports that one in every 13 adults in America either abuses alcohol or has severe alcoholism. Several health and emotional consequences result from chronic alcoholism, yet many with the disorder resist treatment interventions. Although numerous variables contribute to development of the disorder, environmental influence has a serious impact on perpetuating alcohol abuse.
Parental Influence
Modeled behaviors begin in the home. Primary caregivers and extended family have a strong influence on child learning and development. The Australian Institute of Family Studies recognizes parental behaviors and attitude toward consumption as factors in adolescent engagement of alcohol use. The findings in this 2004 report concluded that children exposed to weekly parental drinking were more likely than non-exposed children to accept alcoholic beverages. Additionally, the stress related to parental alcohol abuse increased in children and added strains in the parent-child relationship, further influencing children to engage in alcohol use.
Societal Influence
Media and societal glamorization of alcohol use influences problem drinking. AlcoholPolicyMD.com explains that mass media often exploits dangerous drinking behaviors through music videos and television shows, presenting alcohol abuse as acceptable rather than problematic. This issue is further compounded by celebrity figures gaining popularity due to risky substance-using behaviors and lacking negative consequences for the dangerous drinking. Youth watching these exploits tend to receive mixed messages about the potential consequences of alcoholism.
Availability and Community Impact
Community availability and advertising products has an impact on alcoholism. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, alcohol use is supported by the ease of community stores offering alcohol readily and at discount prices. Additionally, availability of alcohol in the community further increases demand for the substance simply because it is accessible. AlcoholPolicyMD.com explains that the lower the prices for alcohol, the more likely people will drink, and the more liquor establishments in the area, the more likely individuals will frequently buy alcohol.
