A dual-process model of the alcohol-behavior link for social drinking

Abstract

A dual-process model of the alcohol-behavior link is presented, synthesizing 2 of the major social-cognitive approaches: expectancy and myopia theories. Substantial evidence has accrued to support both of these models, and recent neurocognitive models of the effects of alcohol on thought and behavior have provided evidence to support both as well. While proponents of these theories have not suggested that they are mutually exclusive views on how alcohol affects behavior, attempts to synthesize the 2 have been conspicuously absent. The dual-process model presented suggests that the alcohol-behavior link is better reconceptualized as involving a "preconsumption" and a "consumption" phase. This is achieved in the context of contemporary models of automaticity in social behavior, emphasizing the commonality of both controlled and automatic processes in drinking-related behavior. It is argued that a complete understanding of the alcohol-behavior link requires an appreciation of the ways in which the mind may become "intoxicated" even in the absence of alcohol consumption. Suggestions for further research in this area, testing the present dual-process model of the alcohol-behavior link, are also discussed.