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Binge drinking is commonly defined as drinking alcohol solely for the purpose of intoxication. However, it is quite common for binge drinking to apply to a social situation, creating some overlap in social and binge drinking. Binge drinkers may or may not be alcoholics, although the definition of an alcoholic is also subjective.
Definition
There are many definitions of what constitutes binge drinking. Consuming five drinks in one sitting is a fairly common definition, although the number of drinks often varies depending on the attitude of the person making the definition.
Other people consider such factors as social setting, how quickly the drinks were consumed, the type of drinks and perhaps even the drinker's age and body type when defining binge drinking.
Binge drinking and crime
Binge drinking is often associated with crime, particularly street fights after the closing time of clubs and bars.
Prevalence of binge drinking
College students have a reputation for engaging in binge drinking, especially in the United States - despite the fact that the drinking age is 21 in this country. Common participants include athletes and fraternity (or sorority) brothers (sisters), particularly after final examinations, varsity wins and during spring break.
Some common reasons for this propensity for binge drinking is that many college students are living on their own for the first time, free of parental supervision, among peers, especially those of the opposite sex.
Some people argue that binge drinking happens in the U.S. not in spite of the strict underage drinking laws, but rather because of it. Proponents of a lower drinking age argue that strict drinking laws simply drive underage drinkers underground, instead of in a licensed establishment where they will be better supervised and under less inclination and pressure to binge. Proponents of the 21 drinking age vehemently dismiss such arguments, and argue that underage binge drinking should be curtailed through strict enforcement of the laws against it.
Binge drinking is generally seen as less of a problem in Canada. Liquor laws here are generally intolerant toward underage persons drinking in public, but the drinking age in all provinces is either 18 or 19.
In most of Europe, children and adolescents routinely experience alcohol much earlier and often with parental approval and supervision. The drinking age in most countries in 18, and in many jurisdictions younger people can purchase certain types of alcohol in certain settings, such as in a restaurant with a parent. Parents may also choose to provide beverages such as watered-down wine with a meal to encourage responsible use of alcohol.
In most European nations, binge drinking is usually seen to be less of a problem than it in the U.S.A. However, some people, especially in the UK, believe binge drinking is growing problem. In response, the British government has introduced measures to deter disorderly behaviour and sales of alcohol to minors (i.e. those under 18), with special provisions in place during the holiday season. In January 2005 it was reported that 1 million admissions to UK accident and emergency units each year are related to alcohol consumption.
In 2005, the Licensing Act 2003 comes into effect in the UK, partly intended to tackle binge drinking. Some observers however believe it will exacerbate the problem.
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