We need to understand the psychology of drinking
Wednesday, September 1st, 2010http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-11138535
Research is demonstrating that problem drinking is more prevelent in some parts of the country compared with others (see above link to BBC news article). Recent research published by the North West Public Health Observatory has found some stark regional divisions, with two thirds of alcohol related harm occuring in the north.
Health minister Lord Howe said the government was already taking action to stop the sale of alcohol below cost and to review alcohol taxation and price. However he acknowledged that increasing the cost of alcohol alone will not tackle the huge amount of alcohol related health problems and crime our nation is experiencing:
“Supply and price are not the only factors fuelling misuse though, attitudes are crucial. We need to understand better the psychology behind why different groups of people drink too much. Legislation or initiatives will not work unless we have a better understanding of what drives people’s decisions.”
What are your thoughts?