London - Men have a psychological need to go the pub and less than one in 10 said the reason they went was to drink, according to research published yesterday. Just over 40 per cent of the men questioned for the survey said conversation was the overriding excuse for going to their local, followed by relaxation in second place, and the friendly atmosphere third.
Having a drink came in fourth with 10 per cent, according to research commissioned by the makers of the alcohol-free lager Kaliber. "Women often lament the time that their men spend in the pub, but pub time fulfils many functions. It's a unique environment that allows men to bond with their peers and colleagues. Men need break-out time as much as women and are healthier for it."