[Insanity]

I feel like nowadays it is more socially acceptable to say you don’t drink than even just 10 years ago.

I can’t recall the last time I was asked “why” after telling someone I don’t drink. All in all, I was fortunate that during university a close friend of mine also didn’t drink. Being the “odd one out” seems harder than being the “odd pair out” lol.

edit: culture plays a role as well in how acceptable it is. I’m from a country that is heavy on alcohol usage though (Belgium).

[kenjackson]

In the US it’s far more acceptable. I don’t drink and while I’ve been offered, no one ever pushes back. And I’ve never had problems being the only one at parties who didn’t.

[bradlys]

This is YMMV. I still get a lot of “why don’t you drink?!! Come on, man!!” in the US. Especially in a city like NYC - you’re signing up to be a bit of a social outcast.

[siamese_puff]

I disassociate from allowing people like this into my life now.

[moralestapia]

Good for you.

However, in society at large, social influence (excuse the bit of circularity) is an extremely powerful force driving people's lifestyle.