I have a theory about why I think people do this. Deep down they want a partner in crime. The ones who do this really don't feel that drinking is OK (even though they may not admit that to themselves) and feel better if they get others to do it.
That said I have never understood the need to get others to join you in your activities, but I am by nature not a joiner and hate telling or convincing others to do something.
I like to drink, but when someone tries to convince me to, it becomes a personal challenge to do the opposite :-)
I can be contrary.
In my personal experience, drinking around workmates is fraught with traps and try to avoid it.
You're probably right, it can bring them acceptance to bring someone "on board" with their activity, drinking at the work function for instance. It's a rather needy thing to want to do I suppose and doesn't show a good strength of character or personal integrity in my estimation; something that can have adverse effects when done at a work function right?
Ha! Yeah, I have seen a few "adverse effects" for others at work functions. Long ago had one or two small ones myself and now stay away from it :-)
I just take the you do you approach with these folks and it usually works. If they are far into their cups and irrational, I just run away like a little child ;-)
Reasoning with a drunk is tiresome. I think everyone loves me when I am drunk! Hahaha! Turns out they don't!
Interesting how a drunk person thinks they're more interesting, funny, likeable or whatever...typically they are not.