| Abstract: | The bachelor's thesis addresses alcohol and women, specifically the Alcohol Dependence Syndrome (ADS) in women. It has been observed that alcohol consumption among women is becoming increasingly common, socially acceptable, and appealing in today's world (Rus-Makovec, 2014, p. 34), which has drawn our attention, as it highlights the complexity of the issue and its wide spectrum of negative consequences. Additionally, personal experience with the addictive power of alcohol and the role of being a mother to two teenage daughters entering the world of adolescent experimentation further motivated us to explore and identify the risks of alcoholism in women.
The thesis examines the course of development of Alcohol Dependence Syndrome in women. Furthermore, it explores the consequences associated with alcohol consumption among the study participants. In the concluding part of the research, particular attention is given to the individual perspectives of women, presenting their views on the quality of life in their current role as abstinent individuals with a history of alcohol dependence.
In the theoretical part, we utilized professional literature and various authors' perspectives to define key concepts related to alcohol and individual attitudes toward alcohol consumption. We examined and delved into risky and harmful alcohol use as well as Alcohol Dependence Syndrome. Additionally, we addressed the concepts of addiction and dependence. Further, we described the negative consequences of alcohol consumption, with a focus on alcohol in the primary family environment, and specifically explored female alcoholism. We presented different authors, their theories, and facts regarding the characteristics, causes, and consequences of women's alcoholism. The theoretical section concludes with expert perspectives on seeking appropriate help and life without alcohol, i.e., abstinence.
The empirical part of the thesis employs a qualitative, subjectivist research paradigm, using data collection through semi-structured interviews. We interviewed seven women, aged 40–60, who are currently abstinent but have experienced Alcohol Dependence Syndrome. This approach enabled us to pursue our research objectives, and the data analysis provided answers to the research questions posed.
The findings of our research indicate that the development of alcohol dependence in women is influenced by various factors and causes. The analysis further confirms the harmful consequences of alcohol consumption. The individual perspectives on quality of life in their current role as abstinent individuals reveal a past filled with regret, a present characterized by positivity and gratitude, and an optimistic future with a strong desire to maintain lifelong abstinence. |
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