A 1957 study that followed high school students throughout their lives sparked discussions about how cognitive abilities might influence drinking habits in adulthood.
Is there a scientific link between intelligence and alcohol consumption? Studies in psychology and public health often explore correlations between intelligence and lifestyle behaviors. One such survey, which has followed high school students since 1957 throughout their lives, has brought to light discussions about how cognitive abilities may influence drinking habits in adulthood. The results showed that individuals with a higher IQ in adolescence showed a tendency to consume alcohol moderately or excessively as adults.
Intelligence x alcohol consumption
The observed association between high intelligence and increased drinking raises questions about the reasons behind this behavior. Among the hypotheses, it is suggested that more intelligent people have greater social opportunities and greater exposure to contexts involving alcohol consumption, in addition to the impact of stress levels that may be associated with professions requiring high intellectual abilities.
Another relevant factor identified by the study was the relationship between income and alcohol consumption. Individuals with higher incomes tend to consume more alcoholic beverages. This trend can be attributed to the fact that people with greater purchasing power have greater access to social activities where alcohol is consumed, as well as more resources to purchase such drinks.
In this sense, the study suggests that a higher income may be linked to a lifestyle that involves both greater access to drinks and the environment in which their consumption is standardized, such as social events or work meetings. This can contribute to increased stress levels, which many try to mitigate through alcohol.
What did the study show?
The research highlights the complexity of the relationship between intelligence and consumption habits. First, it is worth noting that this correlation may lie in the multifaceted nature of intelligence and how it influences an individual’s social life and personal choices. People with higher IQs may have greater access to academic and professional environments that encourage or tolerate alcohol use.
Additionally, intelligence can lead to higher levels of curiosity and seeking new experiences, including alcohol consumption. Finally, these factors, added to a favorable economic context, create conditions prone to an increase in consumption.
The study in question defines moderate consumption as up to 29 drinks per month for women and up to 59 for men. However, experts point out that there is no amount of alcohol that is considered completely safe for health. Furthermore, current medical advice suggests moderation and awareness of the potential risks associated with regular consumption of alcoholic beverages.
These definitions of consumption were used in the data to evaluate patterns across different demographic groups and health implications. Finally, it is important to highlight that even levels considered “moderate” can pose long-term health risks.
A person’s IQ during high school can predict alcohol use later in life.#Health #IQ #secondary #alcohol pic.twitter.com/rPJiE8t0S3
— INDEX – All health (@INDICE_EU) October 17, 2024
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
