Introduction

Abstract

The main goal of this volume is to show that adherence to a more traditionalist view of one’s culture has the socially desired consequence of inhibiting the emergence of deviant behaviors such as alcohol and other forms of substance abuse. By introducing and defining the concept of “traditionalism” we do not mean the narrow conception of obedience to laws that may prohibit illicit drug use or the adherence to traditional norms that regulate the circumstances of alcohol and other substance use, as important as both of these may be, but rather an outlook on everyday life that is comprehensive and not restricted to specific norms. Among the unique contributions of this volume is the demonstration that, even in the absence of clear regulatory laws and norms, persons who are more traditional in their outlook and social relations are less likely to engage in deviant behavior.