Stereotypical Perspectives on Women and Drinking

In a society which has historically viewed women as docile, obedient and the caretaker of the two sexes, the idea of a woman being an alcoholic has resulted in negative stereotypes that encourage secrecy and hinder recovery.  Many women feel shame about their addiction and hide it thus delaying the recovery process.

In the past, women have sat quietly by while their husbands drank one for one with their buddies.   But times have changed.  Today, it is just as common to see a woman slugging one for one with her friends and holding each other up.  What has historically been a man’s pastime has now become the pastime of both men and women.  And what has previously been thought to be a man’s addiction is slowly becoming a woman’s addiction as well.

Despite the turning of the tides regarding alcohol addiction, society still holds specific ideas and stereotypes regarding the morals and values of men and women who suffer.  When a man has an alcohol problem, society makes excuses.  Perhaps he has a heavy workload and family responsibilities in which he uses alcohol to help him relax.  Or maybe he finds it hard to express his feelings and uses alcohol as an escape.  Or he could be just having fun; after all, boys will be boys.

Women, on the other hand, face the wrath of society’s judgement if they have fallen victim to this addiction.  She is viewed as irresponsible and disrespectful while pity is taken on the husband for having to deal with such an atrocity.  If she is out in public while under the influence, she may be perceived as “loose” or “trashy”.    What a disgrace!  After all, only “bad” girls drink.

In reality, men and women fall under the same category.  We are all human and can all become afflicted with alcohol addiction.  Day to day stresses can drive anyone to use alcohol as a means of escape.  In today’s society, most households are two income families which means both men and women are prone to the same stress of balancing work and family.  Similar stresses can lead to similar addictions.

It is important to note that while societal stresses can have an impact on addiction, there are other factors as well.  There are physical, mental and social aspects to all addictions.  It is important to remember that no one is immune.  Acceptance and support is required to allow women the courage to come forward and seek the help that they need.

Take care, 

Tracy

*** Please note that the viewpoints presented in this article are my own and not necessarily the the viewpoint of Recovery Times.  I realize that men also need the courage to come forward to seek help but this column deals with addiction from a woman’s perspective.