Investigations into the factors behind binge-drinking will be discussed at a free public lecture given by Professor Christine Griffin at the University of Bath this Thursday, looking at young people’s attitudes to alcohol.

Professor Griffin led research which suggests a radical re-thinking of national alcohol policy is required to take into account the social character of alcohol consumption and the identity implications for young people.

“Getting very drunk with friends often insulates young people from viewing their level of alcohol consumption as a potential problem, deepening bonds of friendship and cementing group membership. Campaigns that aim to change young people’s drinking habits need to take the social importance of drinking into account, as well as the pervasive availability of cheap deals on alcohol.

She will be joined by Dr Tess Ridge, from the university’s Department of Social & Policy Sciences, who will present Voices from the Margins: children’s accounts of the impact of poverty on childhood.