NCJ Number
118249
Date Published
1979
Length
26 pages
Annotation
In examining the psychology of the alcohol offender, this chapter addresses alcohol control patterns, varying degrees of alcohol consumption, the epidemiology of alcohol use, theories of the genesis of alcoholism, effects of alcohol use, law enforcement, treatment, social costs, policy development, and the future.
Abstract
Every State has an alcoholic beverage control agency which establishes and enforces rules for the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages. A person may be a social drinker, a heavy drinker, a problem drinker, or an alcoholic, in ascending order of gravity of possible consequences. Theories that explain the genesis of alcoholism pertain to psychoanalytic concepts, personality theory, family factors, self-concept, physiological predisposition, operant conditioning, and anomie. In addition to organ damage, excessive alcohol use has a variety of negative effects on family functioning, job performance, and ability to pursue other goals. In samples of chronic inebriate offenders, only about one-third had criminal histories that included serious crime. Alcohol's release of inhibitions may contribute to criminal behavior. At this writing, courts are apparently unable or unwilling to impose harsh sentences on drunk drivers, and police are lax in enforcing drunk-driving laws. Treatment for alcoholism includes the use of an aversive drug that reacts to alcohol, participation in Alcoholics Anonymous, diversion and civil commitment for alcoholic offenders, occupational alcoholism programs, religious outreach treatment, and halfway houses. 58 references.