title: A review of theory and research on drinking patterns among Jews.
abstract: In an effort to specify the factors relevant to the etiology and prevention of alcoholism, theories have been proposed to account for the low rate of alcoholism among Jews. This paper includes a summary of two major theories that have been developed to explain the drinking patterns among Jews and a review of the data that purportedly support these theories. A critical examination of these studies reveals substantial methodological and interpretive problems that challenge the conclusions that have been generally accepted. Directions for future research are suggested.
mesh_terms: D000428:Alcohol Drinking; D000435:Alcoholic Intoxication / Q000453:epidemiology; D000437:Alcoholism / Q000453:epidemiology*; D002562:Ceremonial Behavior; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D004812:Epidemiologic Methods / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D007585:Jews; D007599:Judaism; D008297:Male; D012054:Reinforcement, Psychology; D012069:Religion and Psychology; D012919:Social Behavior; D014481:United States