This model uses a unimodal skewed curve to represent the distribution of consumption in a population, showing a positive relationship between the mean of consumption and the proportion of heavy consumers. This work is considered by some to be inaccurate in terms of specific estimates, but it does set the stage for research into how changes in access to alcohol bear on overall rates of alcohol consumption as well as the prevalence of heavy drinkers. Explanations of these relationships have focused on social networks and contagion hypotheses. However, the use by the scientific community of terms including absolute alcohol, range of consumers, and log normal distribution is not readily understood by the laypersons who formulate policy. These authors suggest the scientific community must use educational techniques including imagery, visual props, graphics, and stories to foster the convergence of the products of research and the needs of policy makers. 38 references