We are well into the new year now, meaning Dry January is also well in effect – but have resolutioners made the right call?
According to research produced by the University of Oxford the answer may well be no.
Data from three different studies, including a questionnaire, a national survey by the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) and observational research regarding pub behaviour, showed the pub positively effects social engagement, reports the i100.
The study showed that people who visit their local are ‘more likely to trust other members of their community.’
The first study questioned 2,254 adults over the age of 18 assessing their personal happiness, perceived worthwhileness of life, and satisfaction with life, while comparing the results to data on their drinking habits.
Nearly 20 per cent confirmed they had a local, and these subjects all scored highest for their happiness, worthwhileness and satisfaction with life.
The benefits didn’t stop there either…
Observational research showed that people who consume alcohol in a pub rather than a bar have longer, less fragmented conversations.
Researchers are quoted as saying:
Conversations in community-type pubs were longer, more focused and less liable to fragmentation than those in city centre bars.
A final study analysing alcohol consumed also showed that blood alchohol level doesn’t change dramatically across different venues, but the “the normative limit for conversations” due to party size did.
Biologically alcohol is also linked to the release of endorphins which in primates was essential to social bonding.
So if you are looking to build bridges, maintain friendships, and feel safe the pub is the place to be!
