is the removal of stress that leads to drinking not the actual stressful situation. PHYSCHOSOCIAL: When people drink to the point of intoxication they exhibit feelings of superiority and fearless behavior. Experiments have shown those males exhibit higher levels of aggression than do females. The aggressive behavior starts in the adolescent stages of life and may continue into adulthood. Where does the aggressiveness originate? Part of the explanation is that children who are sociable and spontaneous exhibit more aggressive behavior than those who do not. Surprisingly, common traits amongst these children are being first born, having a stable family life and a shy temperament. More current, up to date explanation state that aggression is learned response to frustration and by observing others who exhibit the same aggressive behavior. Males also are at greater risk for developing criminal behavior. Criminal behavior has been linked to alcohol abuse. Studies have concluded that alcohol abuse precedes criminal behavior. Criminal behavior for most youths appears to peak between the ages of 15 to 17, about the same time that their usage of alcohol is on the rise. However only a small percentage (2 to 6) of these people engage in criminal activity into adulthood. Clinicians have addressed the possibility that physical and sexual abuse may be associated with incidents of later alcohol abuse. Sixty to eighty percent of individuals in substance abuse treatment programs reported having been sexually abused. Abused women were about 10 times more likely than non-abused women were to report a history of drug abuse and more than twice as likely to report a history of alcoholism. Uncovering the memories of early childhood experiences is thought to be a contributing factor in alcohol use. The question should not be whether physical and sexual abuse "causes" the later use of alcohol. Many factors contribute, especially in the home, sc...
