Alcohol Abuse Factors

Alcohol abuse is a pattern of behavior involving drinking that can lead to problems in major life areas. Alcohol abuse can lead to not fulfilling work, school or family responsibilities, drinking in situations that are dangerous --- for instance, drunken driving --- and continuing to drink despite these problems. Alcohol abuse can also lead to alcohol dependency addiction, where a person becomes physically dependent on alcohol. Certain factors might contribute to alcohol abuse and dependency.

Age

• Alcohol use and binge drinking --- a form of alcohol abuse --- are prevalent among people ages 12 to 20. The younger a person is when she begins drinking, the more likely she is to become dependent upon alcohol as an adult. Young people who have a history of abuse or family violence are also at higher risk for alcohol abuse, according to "The New York Times."

Gender

• Men are more likely to develop alcohol abuse and dependence. However, women who do develop alcohol dependence are at greater risk for certain health consequences, such as cirrhosis of the liver and brain damage, says "The New York Times."

Race

• Within the United States, there is no difference in prevalence of alcohol abuse among African Americans, Caucasians and Hispanic Americans; however, Native Americans have an increased risk of alcohol abuse and dependence, says "The New York Times." According to the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcoholism and Related Conditions as reported in the January 2006 edition of "Monitor on Psychology," being born outside of United States might be a protective factor, meaning first-generation immigrants had lower rates of alcoholism than their decedents, according to the American Psychological Association.

Genetics

• There is a strong link between alcohol abuse and dependence and genetics. This means that children of alcoholics have an increased risk, says the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Although it is also possible that living in an alcoholic environment contributes to alcohol dependence later in life, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism's July 1992 report, studies using twin children of alcoholics, raised in separate environments or environments free of alcohol, still showed a genetic predisposition to becoming alcoholics.

Mental Illness

• People with mental illness are at high risk for alcohol and other substance abuse, says "The New York Times." It is most likely among people with depression; however, people with mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder, as well as schizophrenia are at high risk for developing alcoholism. Many people with these disorders might use alcohol as a way to "self-medicate," or treat their psychiatric symptoms. Regular use might lead to dependence.