Alcohol abuse and deviance : an exploratory case study of Maltese alcohol community and residential services users

Abstract

This research attempts to study the motivational patterns and consequences of alcohol consumption and its effects leading to deviant behaviour. Adopting a quantitative approach, data for this research was collected by means of questionnaires. Consequently, questionnaires were administered within Sedqa premises in Floriana and at "Dar Zemiq" in Luqa. Alcohol rehabilitation programmes are carried out within same premises. Results of the data analysed reveal that the respondents are aware of the effects brought by excessive alcohol consumption and how this substance leads to deviant behaviour. The minority of alcoholics conform within society. Moreover, the majority of those studied are innovative and behave according to ritualism. This study may be useful in making one more cautious about alcohol consumption and its effects on one's body and behaviour. An expansive study is needed for social actors, especially relatively young adults, to become aware of the risks and the harmful effects that excessive use of alcohol brings about.