Why Public Health Should Talk About the Pleasure of Intoxication
Episode Overview
Public health research often ignores the pleasure aspect of alcohol consumption. Pleasure is a significant motivator for drinking, often masked by socially acceptable reasons. Drug research offers valuable lessons on discussing pleasure. Recognising pleasure could lead to more effective alcohol policies. Challenges exist in measuring intoxication and understanding its social construction.
It's like putting a giant Kick Me sticker on your back and just walking around.
Have you ever wondered why the pleasure of intoxication isn't a hot topic in public health research? In this episode of Addiction Audio, Dr Elle Wadsworth sits down with Dr James Nicholls from the University of Stirling to tackle this intriguing question. Dr Nicholls, along with Professor Geoffrey Hunt, penned an opinion paper that calls for a deeper look into the role of pleasure in alcohol consumption.
They explore how the pleasure derived from drinking is often downplayed or masked by more socially acceptable reasons like relaxation or taste. Yet, the reality is that intoxication itself can be a significant motivator for many people. Dr Nicholls shares his insights on why this aspect has been largely ignored in public health discussions and how recognising it could lead to more effective policies and practices.
They also compare how drug research has been more open to discussing pleasure, offering valuable lessons for alcohol researchers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the complexities of alcohol use and public health. By the end, you'll be thinking about intoxication in a whole new light. So, why not give it a listen and join the conversation?