The Politicization of Alcohol in the USSR and Its Impact on the Study and Treatment of Alcoholism

Abstract

Conducting research, particularly social science or health-related research, in the former Soviet Union was difficult because of the intrusion of communist ideology on public policy, theory, research, and practice. This report provides a description of drinking and alcohol-related problems in Siberia that was not previously available for publication. It reviews how the Soviet State's policies effected the study and treatment of alcoholism in Russia, and presents a critical review of these policies that would not have been permitted under the previous regime.

Key Words:

• Alcoholism
• Treatment
• Public policy
• Epidemiology