Alcohol and Drug Abuse in Teens: Effects

What is alcoholism? Alcoholism is a progressive and sometimes fatal chronic disease characterized by continuous drinking, preoccupation with alcohol, use of alcohol despite the consequences, and distortions in thinking, particularly denial.

What causes alcoholism? There are three different theories used to explain alcoholism:

It is genetic in origin and is a reaction to chromosomal or hormonal deficiencies.

It is psychological in origin and “set off” by certain personality traits.

It is sociological in origin and is a learned behavior influenced by society.