Positive Consequences of Drinking on Social Connection

Abstract

Alcohol may stimulate social bonding, increase the amount of time people spend talking to one another, and reduces displays of negative emotions (Sayette 2012). Individual and group interactions were assessed using the Facial Action Coding System (FACS) and the Grouptalk model for speech behavior in this research. It was found that social interaction time increased when moderate alcohol use was involved. In a survey in the U.S., the most common outcome of drinking as reported by drinkers labeled as non problematic was that they "felt happy and cheerful" (Cahalan, 1970). In a different survey, 43% of adult male drinkers always or usually felt "friendly" when they drank. This can be compared with 8% who felt "aggressive" and 2% "sad" (Roizen, 1983). The purpose of the study being conducted was to examine the positive consequences of alcohol consumption on social connections by taking into account how one feels after drinking, time spent drinking, their gender, and amount of alcohol consumed, should be kept moderate. Data will be collected through an anonymous survey. It can be predicted that drinking while enhance social bonding by increasing the ease and comfort of conversation, boosting the mood of the situation, and increasing confidence of individuals.