Alcohol

THE greatest single handicap to influencing student conduct relating to alcohol is the attitude of the public toward the use of alcohol and, especially, ignorance about alcoholism. Briefly, the prevailing attitude regarding the use of alcohol is either that it is "only" a moral issue, or that it is no issue, or that the consumer must learn moderation in drinking. In my experience, those for whom it is "only a moral issue" generally exhibit bigotry in their attitude regarding the use of alcohol by others. Those for whom it is no issue, or one of learning to drink moderately, generally display arrogance regarding those who have any other view. Nearly all exhibit hypocrisy regarding the use of alcohol. Bigotry, arrogance and hypocrisy are difficult attitudes with which to deal, especially all at once!