Elvin Morton Jellinek

Elvin Morton Jellinek, better known as E. Morton Jellinek, was an American biostatistician, physiologist, and alcoholism researcher. He is best known for his research on alcoholism and his formulation of the "Jellinek Curve," a model that describes the progression of alcoholism.

The Jellinek Curve is a model developed by E. Morton Jellinek to describe the different phases and stages of alcoholism. It illustrates the progression from early problem drinking to chronic alcoholism, with each stage characterized by specific physical and psychological symptoms.

E. Morton Jellinek made significant contributions to the field of alcoholism research. He conducted extensive surveys and interviews with alcoholics and developed the concept of the "disease concept of alcoholism," which shifted the understanding of alcoholism from a moral failing to a disease. Jellinek also studied the physical effects of alcohol on the body and developed the Jellinek Curve, which remains a widely recognized model in the field.

The disease concept of alcoholism, developed by E. Morton Jellinek, proposes that alcoholism is not solely a result of moral weakness or lack of willpower, but rather a complex disease with genetic, biophysical, and psychological components. Jellinek's research and advocacy for the disease model helped shift public opinion and promote understanding and empathy for individuals suffering from alcoholism.

In addition to his work on the disease concept of alcoholism and the Jellinek Curve, E. Morton Jellinek made other significant contributions to alcoholism research. He conducted extensive surveys and interviews with alcoholics, which provided valuable insights into the various patterns and stages of alcohol use disorder. Jellinek also helped establish the field of biostatistics as a valuable tool in studying alcoholism and pioneered the use of statistical analysis in alcohol research.