“Alcoholism” and “social drinking”: analyzing the use of lay terms in primary health care

Abstract

Introduction: Informal expressions such as "social drinking" and "alcoholism" are commonly encountered in primary health care (PHC) consultations in Brazil. This study aimed to understand how the cultural perceptions of PHC professionals influence patient care, including the descriptive and injunctive norms that underlie their attitudes and interventions. Methodology: We employed a qualitative content analysis methodology. Thirty-three higher-level PHC professionals in the city of Rio de Janeiro were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire with specific questions about "social drinking" and "alcoholism." Results: Participants perceived "social drinking" as low-frequency/low-quantity consumption with friends and family, without loss of control, while "alcoholism" was viewed as severe and problematic use. Professionals' normative confidence in "social drinking" hinders thorough investigation of alcohol use. The severity associated with "alcoholism" reinforces stigma and impedes early interventions. Conclusion: These cultural terms permeate clinical practice yet are imprecise and potentially harmful. Training programs for alcohol use approach should incorporate cultural aspects.