High intensity drinking

Based on online focus group interviews, this study compares experiences and reflections on high-intensity drinking among 20-40-year-olds in Denmark, Estonia and Italy.

Aim

The purpose of this project is to compare excessive drinking in 3 European countries: Denmark, Italy and Estonia. The focus is on non-pathological high-intensity drinking in the light of contexts and individual motivational factors. The study aims to generate knowledge that can be used for prevention and policy.

Background

Episodes of excessive drinking is an indicator of harmful alcohol intake. Some high intensity drinking is associated with alcohol misuse and addiction. However, some excessive drinking is more associated with festive events, ‘everyday’ drinking events, the nighttime economy, etc. In fact, the context of drinking, is found to be particularly important, which also includes: the type of drinks, the mood of the person and the social occasion or event. Furthermore, it is known that perceptions and practices of alcohol intake vary considerably between different countries and drinking cultures.

The study

The study will use online focus group interviews with people aged 20-40 years. Identical video clips showing examples of high-intensity drinking situations (the RAGI method) will be used in the focus groups in the three participating countries. Based on these interviews, the project will compare how the participants understand motives for high-intensity drinking, the significance of the drinking contexts, and the role of the social contexts for drinking patterns.

The project runs from January 2022 to January 2024