Alcohol and Other Drugs

 Alcohol and other drugs have long played a central role in society, both in everyday life and as subjects of controversy, regulation, and social concern. This week’s lesson focused on how sociologists approach drug and alcohol use, including the ways in which these substances shape communities, affect individual lives, and contribute to broader social issues. One of the main themes highlighted was how substance abuse not only causes health problems but also creates ripple effects across families, workplaces, and institutions. Alcohol, in particular, is a socially accepted substance, yet it remains linked to a wide range of social problems such as impaired driving, domestic violence, and addiction.

The chapter readings and PowerPoint emphasized the importance of defining deviance in relation to drugs and alcohol. Deviance refers to behavior that violates social norms, and whether a drug is considered “acceptable” or “illicit” often depends on cultural context. For example, marijuana remains illegal in some states but has become normalized in others due to changing laws and attitudes. Another key term is social control, which refers to the formal and informal ways society regulates behavior. Alcohol use may be encouraged in celebratory settings, but laws against drunk driving represent mechanisms of formal social control that seek to protect the public from harm.


Alcohol mixed with prescription pills is a common example of substance misuse and its potential dangers 

Another key point from this lesson is how alcohol and drugs intersect with inequality. While wealthier individuals may have easier access to treatment and rehabilitation, disadvantaged groups often face harsher criminal penalties for drug-related offenses. These patterns demonstrate how social class and power influence how drug use is perceived and punished. In summary, the sociological study of alcohol and drugs shows us that these substances are not just biological or medical issues but deeply social in nature.

Sociological Perspectives 

From a sociological standpoint, alcohol and drugs can be analyzed through three major perspectives. Functionalism sees drug use as a way that society maintains balance or dysfunction; for example, moderate alcohol use may promote social bonding, but widespread abuse threatens social stability. Conflict theory focuses on how drugs are linked to inequality and power, such as the way drug laws disproportionately affect marginalized communities. Symbolic interactionism highlights the meanings individuals attach to drug use, such as how drinking may symbolize adulthood, social status, or rebellion depending on the context. Together, these perspectives reveal the complex and layered role that substances play in society.

NSDUH Findings 

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), alcohol remains the most widely used substance among Americans aged 12 and older. The 2022 survey (Chapter 2: Alcohol Use, pp. 19–24) reports that nearly 137 million people (about 49% of the U.S. population) reported alcohol use in the past month, with the highest rates among adults aged 18–25. Binge drinking was especially common in this group, highlighting how age and social setting influence patterns of use. Men were more likely than women to report heavy alcohol use, and rates of drinking also varied by race/ethnicity, with white adults reporting the highest levels. These findings show how demographic factors like age, gender, and cultural background shape drinking behaviors and risk levels. For further reference click here.

Local Organization 

In my community, one organization working to address alcohol and drug abuse is Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Florida. MADD’s mission is to end drunk driving, support victims of this crime, and prevent underage drinking through education and advocacy programs. They provide victim support services, community awareness campaigns, and policy advocacy aimed at reducing impaired driving incidents. Their work demonstrates how grassroots and nonprofit organizations can have a powerful role in addressing substance-related social problems by combining education, prevention, and direct support. Follow this link here for more details. 


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