Macroeconomic conditions and alcohol consumption: When the economy is down, alcohol consumption goes up
Thursday, October 13, 2011 - 09:30
in Psychology & Sociology
Previous studies have found that health outcomes improve during an economic downturn. Job loss means less money available for potentially unhealthy behaviors such as excessive drinking, according to existing literature on employment and alcohol consumption. A new study has concluded just the opposite -- heavy drinking and alcohol abuse/dependence significantly increase as macroeconomic conditions deteriorate.