. Men and women show different traits in all three aspects. These aspects help us know why men and women behave differently in one similar situation. This article hopes to identify the characteristics of men and their behavior towards alcohol in particular.
Physical traits
Men are physically masculine. Their genetic build up is that they are physically stronger than women. The hormone testosterone is the contributing factor of men's masculinity. Bodily changes such as broader shoulders, more facial and pubic hair, larger skull and bone structure, and greater muscle tissue are common secondary sexual characteristics among men. The physical make-up of men endears them to engage in activities that involve physical exertion such as sports and those that involve physical contact. Men in general have bigger appetites than women and their bodies have higher tolerance to alcoholic beverages and other strong drinks. The reason for this is that men have higher levels of alcohol dehydrogenase, a chemical substance in the liver and in the stomach that metabolizes alcohol.
Mental traits
According to studies, men perceive and process ideas differently. Men are more objective thinkers while women are more emotional. Men often process one idea at a time and focuses on one task at a given time. Men cope and deal with stress and difficult situations very differently from women. A study conducted in alcohol rehabilitation centers revealed the different causes of alcoholism among men. One is that many men have difficulty expressing their feelings and alcohol intake is usually the most common form of coping. Another reason is the psychological influence of parents who are also alcoholics. A man has higher tendency to become an alcoholic if one or both parents are also alcoholics.
Social Characteristics
Men enjoy companionship in groups. Social acceptance is of high regard for men. The ability to influence or persuade others in a social circle puts men at a higher status. This is a reason why binge drinking sessions are more common among men than women. Many men spend long hours of drinking and socializing as a way of relieving stress after a busy day at work. Social drinking is also common in business meetings. There is danger in this however, many men in alcohol rehabilitation centers reported of uncontrolled binge drinking because of the need for social acceptance. Therapy for this kind of addiction usually involves a whole change of environment to help the individual overcome social pressure from those who influence him to take a lot of alcohol.