What is the term for the phenomenon where a person feels they are less impaired than they actually are after drinking?

The term refers to a cognitive phenomenon where individuals believe they are less impaired by alcohol than they truly are. This condition, known as alcohol myopia, occurs because alcohol affects judgment and perception, leading individuals to underestimate their level of impairment and the risks associated with their behavior.

When someone experiences alcohol myopia, they may focus on immediate experiences and feelings rather than considering the broader consequences of their actions. This can lead to poor decision-making, such as believe they are fit to drive or engage in risky behaviors, despite a higher level of intoxication that would normally inhibit such choices. The practical implications of this phenomenon are significant, as it contributes to a range of dangerous situations, including impaired driving and the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors.

Understanding alcohol myopia is particularly important for individuals to recognize their impaired state and make safer decisions regarding consumption and behaviors while under the influence.