Peter is 17 years old and has just been diagnosed with alcohol addiction - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 17 - 2021 - Paper 2

Peter's development has significantly influenced his alcohol addiction in several ways. First, observational learning plays a crucial role here. As a child, Peter observed his mother consuming alcohol daily, which is a behavior that children often imitate. This early exposure can lead to the normalization of drinking as a means to cope or socialize.

Furthermore, social identity theory explains how individuals align themselves with a group that shares similar habits and values. Peter's wish to fit in with his peers, who also drink, contributed to his engagement with alcohol at the age of 13. This social reinforcement likely encouraged him to continue the behavior to maintain his social ties.

Another essential aspect is the concept of classical conditioning. Over time, Peter may have associated social gatherings with the consumption of alcohol, reinforcing the need to drink to feel at ease in social situations. As he finds that alcohol helps him feel confident and more talkative at parties, his drive to drink in these circumstances continues to strengthen.

Lastly, Peter associates drinking with having a good time, such that now he feels compelled to drink at every party to replicate those positive feelings. This connection shows how deeply ingrained the habit of drinking has become in his social interactions and personal life.