This essay talks about how rates of alcohol use and drinking problems vary over time. Based on the readings and epidemiological evidence that we have examined in this course, how would you describe the current status of drinking problems in the U.S. among adolescents and adults as (1) compared to the 1970s in the U.S. and (2) as compared to other societies today?

how rates of alcohol use and drinking problems vary over time.

Epidemiological research focuses on how rates of alcohol use and drinking problems vary over time and in different societies.  Based on the readings and epidemiological evidence that we have examined in this course, how would you describe the current status of drinking problems in the U.S. among adolescents and adults as (1) compared to the 1970s in the U.S. and (2) as compared to other societies today?  Be sure to answer both parts of the question and identify the sources of your epidemiological data (although you don’t need to include formal citations and references).  Please avoid the use of graphics and describe these epidemiological trends and patterns in words only.  Type your answer below, using as much space as you need (but fewer than 1,000 words):

2.Secondly,  Essay (maximum of 1,000 words):

The so-called “disease model” of alcoholism and addiction has become the dominant conceptual framework in the study and treatment of alcohol problems in the U.S.  However, a number of scholars and practitioners have been highly critical of the disease conception of alcohol problems.

  Identify and discuss at least three (or more) criticisms of the disease model from the weekly readings and other material covered in this course.

3.  Open-ended (200 words maximum):

BAC (blood alcohol content) is determined by more than just the amount of alcohol consumed by an individual.  As discussed in several readings, what other variables have been found to affect BAC across different individuals and drinking occasions?

4.  Open-ended (200 words maximum):

What ethnic groups in the U.S. experience the most severe alcohol-related problems?  Briefly summarize the key findings of epidemiological research on ethnic differences in harmful social and health outcomes of alcohol use.

5.  Open-ended (200 words maximum):

Erich Goode presents a lengthy discussion of how selective interaction/socialization explanations of deviant drinking and drug use, such as the theories of Bruce Johnson and Denise Kandel, differ from social learning and subcultural explanations, such as the theories of Edwin Sutherland and Howard Becker. What are the basic differences between these two theoretical approaches?

6.  Open-ended (200 words maximum):

Briefly describe the fundamental differences between the “normative” and the “relativistic” approaches to deviant drinking.

7.  Open-ended (200 words maximum):

How do the typical drinking patterns of Jews differ from those of Conservative Protestants (such as Southern Baptists or Mormons) with regard to (1) rates of alcohol use and (2) rates of drinking problems?