Genetics are often cited as a cause for making a person more vulnerable to alcoholism, but this does not explain all cases of excessive drinking. A person's surroundings can play a strong role on the road to potential alcohol abuse and alcoholism. An environment that promotes drinking can make it difficult for many people to avoid the temptations of drinking to excess.
Family
Parents who drink more than other parents may bring up children who will have a more favorable view of drinking, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. The parents do not necessarily have to drink to excess. Having alcoholic beverages around the home and drinking frequently may present future drinking problems for children, unless the parents educate their children about the potential hazards of drinking too much. Homes where alcohol is creating disturbances may also lead children to a life of alcohol abuse, even if genetics are not a factor. Such a home may cause high levels of stress and emotional pain in young people who start drinking to numb any problem. Children with parents or siblings who drink often can be at risk for developing alcoholism.
Peers
Friends who use alcohol may tempt someone to drink more. Peer pressure can result in a child drinking at a young age. The earlier a person starts drinking, the greater chance there is the person will develop a drinking problem. An adolescent or teen may have a boyfriend or girlfriend who drinks often, leading the youngster to drink more alcohol just to fit in. Parents can play a role in warning children about alcoholic hazards and using disciplinary measures to prevent problems that develop outside the home.
Community
Despite anti-drinking campaigns and education through schools, environmental factors may play a part in alcoholism when a community is threatened by drinking temptations outside the school and home. It can be difficult for people to stay away from bad drinking habits when surrounded by an atmosphere of drinking or drugs in the neighborhood or community. Adults can develop a pattern of drinking in bars and parties within the community that promotes drinking. Although occasional drinking may be harmless for many people, others can be led to excessive drinking.
Cultural Impressions
Drinking is often glamorized in movies, on television and the Internet, and through advertising, says the Mayo Clinic. Sometimes it may even signal that it is fine to drink in excess. That can have a dramatic impact on everyone, but especially young people who may begin drinking earlier on to imitate the people they see enjoying themselves without the negative consequences. A person predisposed to alcoholism may fall victim to the portrayal of drinking being a big part of a romantic and adventurous life.
