Abstract
Women's drinking behaviour has recently emerged as an issue. Problem drinking per se has been researched, but the emphasis on gender is a relatively novel focus. In the present paper, recommendations are made for a theoretical framework to guide research. They are developed from discussion of previous perspectives, and the trend from ethical to medical to diversified theory is noted. Previous research on gender differences is discussed, as well as work directed specifically at women. The proposed framework recognises the likelihood of a common core of theory which would be supplemented by gender‐specific aspects. The need for a multidisciplinary approach is also discussed, as is the logic of treating drinking behaviour on a continuum. Finally, a recommendation is made for studying drinking behaviour in a context of other indulgent/appetitive behaviours such as eating and smoking.

This publication has 22 references indexed in Scilit: