Alcohol Use and Misuse among Hispanic Women: Selected Factors, Processes, and Studies

Abstract

This paper presents a critical review of epidemiologic studies of the use and misuse of alcohol on Hispanic women. Although there is a wide variation in alcohol use among different Hispanic groups, there is some uniformity. The findings of most studies point toward the fact that drinking and drunkenness, as well as "excessive drinking," is predominantly a male activity. Abstention rates are high among Hispanic women, and a pattern of infrequent "light" drinking and low prevalence rates of alcoholism is usually observed in most groups of Hispanic women. The role of societal mores and culture in shaping these patterns of alcohol use is discussed. Recommendations for needed future research with Hispanic women are also made.