There are many causes of alcoholism. Many risk factors play a part in alcohol addiction. These risk factors are not the same for everyone, and can lead to alcohol addiction in some people but not others.
External and internal factors are both important in the development of alcoholism. External factors include genetics and psychological conditions, personality, drinking history, and personal choice. External factors include the environment, family, religion, social, cultural norms, and age.
Many factors can impact the development of alcohol addiction. It is impossible to predict whether anyone will develop alcoholism. It is up to the individual to decide whether or not they want to drink, but a lot of research indicates that once someone starts drinking, alcoholism is almost completely out of their control. It is also true to say that many factors can influence whether an individual becomes an alcoholic.
Personality Factors
There are some personalities more at risk of developing alcoholism than others. People who are more likely or less likely to disregard risks are more likely to consume more alcohol. Like genetics, personality factors can be complex and interact with one another. One person might want to be “the party king” and become a frequent social drinker to increase their social skills. Another person might feel more comfortable in social situations if they drink too much. It is also important to consider what expectations you have about drinking. People who have positive expectations about the effects of alcohol are more likely to become alcoholics than those who have negative expectations.
Personal Choice Factors
When it comes to alcoholism, some aspects can be left up to the individual. A person who vows to never drink again is unlikely to become an alcoholic. Additionally, people who avoid alcohol-related situations are less likely than those who drink. But, once someone starts drinking, their personal choice has a much smaller impact on whether or not they become an alcoholic than other factors.
Drinking History Factors
Alcoholism can be influenced by a person’s drinking history. Long-term drinkers are more likely than those who haven’t been drinking for as long as they did to become alcoholics. The same goes for those who have drunk more alcohol than those who have drunk less. In reality, alcohol use can rewire the brain to want and depend upon alcohol. These effects are cumulative.
Social And Cultural Factors
Alcoholism is influenced by many cultural and social factors. Alcohol abuse disorders are more likely when alcohol is accepted or encouraged. college is perhaps the most famous example. It is a place where alcohol is celebrated and encouraged, even when it is dangerous.
The treatment is affected by social and cultural factors. Cultural norms that make drinking shameful can lead to alcoholics hiding their condition and avoiding treatment because of the stigma attached to being called an alcoholic.
Sub-cultures and primary cultures have an impact on alcoholism. Sub-culture members are more likely to drink alcohol, and in many cases, this is encouraged by others as a means of acceptance.
Age Factors
Age is a major factor in alcohol abuse. Alcohol abuse is most common in teens and early twenties. It then peaks during the middle and later twenties. Then it slows down by the mid-thirties. The most likely age to use alcohol is in the early to mid-twenties. Individuals who begin drinking alcohol earlier in their lives are more likely to become addicted later on.
Career Factors
Some professions are more prone to developing alcoholism than others. This is true especially for professions with high stress and/or high risk. However, it could also be true for professions dominated primarily by young adults. Military members are particularly at risk of developing alcohol-related disorders.
How Do Alcoholism Risk Factors Affect Treatment And Relapse?
Treatment is possible regardless of how many risk factors an individual has. It is important to remember that there are no risk factors that can make or break your life. Your past doesn’t determine your future. Great Oaks Recovery Center has extensive experience working with addicts of all ages and from all walks of society.