Exploring the determinants of regional differences in alcohol consumption patterns in European countries: A special focus on the role of policies and social norms

Much attention has been paid to the relative impact of various factors influencing drinking behaviour. In Europe, this debate has also been translated into analysing potential differences in drinking behaviours between countries in Northern and Southern regions. This special focus chapter describes the drinking patterns and outcomes and the severity of the alcohol policies in different regions of Europe. It also sheds new light on other factors, such as social norms, that may explain changes in drinking patterns and outcomes.