In contrast, across studies [17–20] low LR subjects demonstrated less neural activity during a range of cognitive and emotional tasks after consuming alcohol compared to a no-alcohol condition. This decrease in brain activation with alcohol compared to placebo might be more difficult to perceive as an effect of alcohol, and might contribute to less intense subjective feelings of intoxication. The ability of low LR subjects to execute an affective response in the current protocol using less effort when consuming modest doses of alcohol might also be perceived as rewarding. This could contribute to an enhanced likelihood of continuing alcohol consumption during an evening.
