There are plenty of studies out there that warn of the health risks associated with alcohol consumption, but research also suggests that having a drink may play a role in improving social cohesion.
A national survey conducted by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) as far back as 2017, looked at whether the frequency of alcohol consumption or the type of venue affected peoples’ social experiences and wellbeing.
The results identified that people who have a ‘local’ that they visit regularly tend to be more socially engaged and happier, and are more likely to trust other members of their village community. While those without a local pub had significantly smaller social networks and were far less engaged with, and trusting of, their local communities.
The study also showed that those who drank at local pubs socialised in smaller groups, which in turn encouraged whole-group conversation, and those drinking in city-centre bars hung out in much larger groups, and participated much less in group conversation.
While pubs traditionally have a role as a place for community socialising, alcohol’s role appears to be in triggering the endorphin system, which promotes social bonding.
Cheers! See you in the local.
Comments