more people drinking at home due to Scotland/Ireland smoking ban?

Question

i work with people with substance abuse problems and they tell me that smoking bans will increase domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse. your views please

Answer 1

I don't think so. You cannot blame a non smoking pub for some moron who decides to bash the c**p out of his partner or smoke crack. If anything it will help reduce the amount of alcohol consumption and substance abuse (ie cocaine in the toilets etc) by making pubs no smoking because people will have to go outside for a smoke!

I went to Sweden a while ago - I used to have a heavy smoking habit, around 30-40 a day, I quit at new year, successfully - and it is no smoking there. When I wanted a smoke I went outside. Simple. I now do not enjoy the smell of cigarettes and would much rather go to a no smoking pub.

Answer 2

I live in scotland and I wouldnt say that the smoking ban has stopped as many people going out but I am sure that when the weather becomes too cold for them to stand outside and smoke it will.
I think you are right that people drinking at home will result in more violence and drunkenness than there would have been had they been drinking in a social environment.

Answer 3

I don't follow the logic here....the questions suggests that those who smoke in public (bars, etc) may also have a tendency for domestic abuse. Whereas, those who engage in abuse have more deep rooted problems -- they may drink outwith the home, but I am sure they would then return home to undertake their act.

I serious doubt the smoking ban has turned people to self/other abuse. Here in Scotland, I can say that the smoking ban has simply made people adjust their habits and plan an evening more carefully.

Answer 4

I don't think so, many people who didn't go out before because of smoking are going out now, lots of people stay at home to drink because it is cheaper. Many bars are building on covered patio areas for smokers so they don't have to stand out in the cold.

Answer 5

I would doubt it. People still go on nights out and if they smoke they just pop outside for a ciggie. It's no biggie.

Answer 6

I agree, that may be a possible flip side to the smoking ban.

Answer 7

there are less people in pubs and thats before winter sets in and weather is bad.What can happen is there is more likeliehood of violence occurring outside pubs cos young guys etc jostle for space when they go out for a ***