‘Romantic jealousy’ causes alcohol problems

Source: The Spirits Business

by Annie Hayes

17th July, 2015

People who experience “romantic jealousy” are more likely to drink alcohol to “cope”, according to new research.

The study found that people whose self-esteem relies on their relationship turn to alcohol to cope if they feel jealous

The study, “The green eyed monster in the bottle”, published in Addictive Behaviors, observed the link between romantic jealousy, relationship-dependent self-esteem and alcohol problems.

It revealed that people whose self-esteem relies on their relationship turn to alcohol to cope if they feel jealous.

The findings were particularly true for people who are “less satisfied”, “less committed”, and report feeling “more disconnected” from their partners.

The authors of the study, from the University of Houston, believe that understanding the link could help identify people at risk of alcoholism more quickly.

The researchers interviews 277 people – 87% of whom were female – at a large US university, about how dependent their self-esteem is on their romantic relationship, the satisfaction, commitment and closeness in their relationship, their levels of jealousy and their alcohol use.

Dr. Angelo DiBello, lead author of the study, told Elvesier: “Romantic jealousy is a shared human experience, but very little work has looked at how it is related to alcohol use, misuse and associated problems. This research helps to highlight the associations between these factors and show how our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors are related in potentially harmful ways.

“Ultimately, I hope to use findings like these to support the development of prevention and intervention efforts among individuals who may struggle with alcohol, self-esteem and relationship issues.”

Earlier this week, a new study revealed 66% of young people believe alcohol is “not important” to their social lives.