The sixth river of Panjab: a qualitative exploration of alcohol use among Panjabi Sikhs in the UK

Introduction Harmful alcohol use in the British based Panjabi Sikh diaspora is an underresearched topic and as a result, little is known about how cultural norms may contribute to the development of harmful drinking patterns. This thesis aims to address this gap by understanding how Panjabi Sikhs in the UK interpret cultural norms, and whether they conform to drinking patterns that are accepted and expected as defined by these norms. The goal of the research is to gain an understanding of the health needs of this community concerning alcohol. Method This research employs a reflexive thematic analysis. A total of nine self-identifying Panjabi Sikh participants (six male, three female) have been successfully recruited using online purposive sampling strategies. Recruitment has taken place over a period of 15 months. The research design is qualitative, and data has been collected via a single semi-structured interview with each participant. Findings Six themes and five subthemes have developed as interpretations of the data. The themes suggest that religious and cultural norms have a significant influence in defining accepted and expected drinking patterns among Panjabi Sikhs. Whereas Sikh attitudes forbid alcohol use in any capacity, Panjabi cultural attitudes seemingly endorse and actively perpetuate harmful drinking. Taken together, the themes point to the formation of a unique drinking culture among Panjabi Sikhs in the UK. Discussion The dichotomy between Sikh and Panjabi attitudes towards alcohol aligns with the consensus in the literature. However, the proposed drinking culture is concerning as it influences Panjabi Sikhs to drink harmfully and deters help seeking behaviours. The researcher is acknowledged a co-constructor of the findings and the themes as an interpretative and reflexive analysis of the data. Conclusion The findings and framework of this study have many implications for policy and practice. Firstly, whilst culturally appropriate strategies may be useful for targeting some Panjabi Sikhs, others prefer an individually tailored approach. It is critical to address issues of stigma and shame to improve the access rates for alcohol recovery services. Further research is needed to develop a stronger understanding of the relationship between the Panjabi Sikh diaspora and alcohol in the UK.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

PhD

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Wolverhampton

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Hunjan, Avneet Singh

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Takhar, Opinderjit Kaur

• Punjabi
• Panjabi
• Sikh
• alcohol
• stigma
• culture
• religion

Licence

• https://wlv.openrepository.com/bitstreams/c2e46bce-76da-443e-a389-2ddff64a4ec0/download