The “positive phase” of drinking is an important concept in the field of alcohol use disorder, as it helps explain why some individuals progress to more serious levels of drinking and drunk behavior, while others remain at relatively minimal levels of consumption. In short, the positive phase of drinking is the portion of drinking behavior that initially increases the pleasurable effects that people experience from drinking alcohol. The positive phase is often characterized by positive reinforcement—the positive experience associated with drinking encourages the individual to drink more.
The positive phase of drinking typically begins with what is known as “priming” or “topping up.” During these stages, an individual may drink more than they consciously intended to, which can often result in the escalation of the level of drinking over the course of the evening. The drinking behavior gradually progresses to more intense levels of intoxication due to a combination of factors, including social or environmental cues, increased consumption, and individual differences.
When alcohol consumption progresses to the positive phase, the individual can often become emotionally involved with the process as well. This means that drinking is no longer seen as a largely cognitive activity, but rather is seen as an experientially enjoyable activity. Emotional responses to drinking may serve to increase the individual’s level of involvement in the activity through a feedback loop, in which emotions associated with the activity further intensify the positive effects the individual is experiencing.
Over time, the positive phase of drinking can produce a decrease in the drinker’s sense of control. This is due to several factors, including an increase in alcohol tolerance, as well as a decrease in the drinker’s ability to accurately assess their alcohol consumption or its intensity. Because of this decrease in control, the drinker is therefore more likely to continue drinking at an increasing intensity, ultimately leading to further escallation.
The positive phase of drinking is a key factor in the development of alcohol use disorder, as it leads to increased drinking, a decrease in overall control, and an increase in the risk of harm or even death to the individual, as well as the people around them. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the early signs of escalating drinking behavior in order to intervene in potentially dangerous situations before it is too late.
For someone struggling with alcohol use disorder, recognizing and understanding the positive phase of drinking is vital to initiating and maintaining recovery. This includes actively working to reduce alcohol consumption and seeking appropriate supports to prevent relapse. With the right support and assistance, an individual can break through the positive and unhealthy patterns of drinking and take their first steps toward a healthier lifestyle.