Disease concept
The problem of alcoholism, until a few decades ago, was considered as a moral problem. Now it is considered as a complicated, chronic and immensely costly disease rather than as a type of deviant behavior.
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The American medical association and the world health organization as well as many other professional groups regard alcoholism as a disease. It is unfortunate that most people are aware about the fact that it is a disease and it can be treated and controlled through medical intervention and counseling.
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Misconceptions
False - Alcohol is a stimulant,
Truth - Actually alcohol is a depressant.Truth - Alcohol has no food calorie value except during its metabolic period.
False - Rich and adequate food intake prevents liver damage, it is not true.
False- Some people regularly take vitamin preparations or other herbal tonics to prevent the ill effects of alcohol on the body, it is not true.
False- A few persons claim to have higher level of ‘self-tolerance’ to alcohol. But the size of the body is not connected with the level of tolerance to alcohol.
False- The statement that alcohol increases sex life, it is not true.
Research Shows
Sociological studies show that vulnerability or risk is greater in the following conditions.
Those with the family history of alcoholism
Those who are in a broken home situation
The youngest child of the family
Where culture is permissive.
Teetotalers who are part of alcoholic groups and whop socialize with them.
Those who are heavy smokers.