Which of the following is a characteristic of binge drinking?

Which of the following is a characteristic of binge drinking?

• A. Consuming alcohol in moderation at social events
• B. Drinking five or more alcoholic beverages in a short period
• C. Daily consumption of alcohol
• D. Planning drinking around important events

Answer: (B)

Binge drinking is defined as consuming a large quantity of alcohol in a short period, typically five or more drinks within about two hours for men, and four or more drinks for women. This pattern of excessive drinking can lead to acute intoxication and poses significant risks to physical and mental health. The focus is on the quantity and rate of consumption, which is why five or more drinks qualifies as binge drinking. It is important to understand that this behavior is distinct from moderate drinking, daily alcohol consumption, or strategic drinking, which do not involve the same level of acute risk associated with binge drinking.

Binge drinking is defined as consuming a large quantity of alcohol in a short period, typically five or more drinks within about two hours for men, and four or more drinks for women. This pattern of excessive drinking can lead to acute intoxication and poses significant risks to physical and mental health. The focus is on the quantity and rate of consumption, which is why five or more drinks qualifies as binge drinking. It is important to understand that this behavior is distinct from moderate drinking, daily alcohol consumption, or strategic drinking, which do not involve the same level of acute risk associated with binge drinking.