Are Students Drinking Hand Over Fifth?: Understanding Participant Demographics in Order to Curb a Dangerous Practice

• NCJ Number: 237977
• Journal: Journal of Alcohol and Drug Edcuation Volume: 55 Issue: 3 Dated: December 2011 Pages: 41-60
• Author(s): Holly A. Foster, M.Ed.; Ellen J. Bass, Ph.D.; Susan E. Bruce, M.Ed.
• Date Published: December 2011
• Length: 20 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: Virginia Dept of Alcoholic Beverage Control
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined the practice of students who participate in a time-specific celebratory drinking practice.

Abstract

High-risk drinking remains an issue on college campuses. Limited research focuses on drinking associated with single events where students are encouraged to drink a predetermined amount of alcohol. Fourth-year undergraduate students (N=1,205) completed a survey about motivation, behaviors, and perceptions surrounding participation in a practice where some students attempt to consume a fifth of liquor (750 ml) on the day of the last home football game. Results revealed 18.0 percent of fourth-year students participated, predominately Greek-affiliated males. Of those who self-reported consuming a fifth, 75.4 percent consumed at least six more drinks than they do on a typical Saturday night. Motivating factors for participation included challenge, tradition, and sociability. As students generally underestimated participation rates, social norms marketing approaches may not be effective. (Published Abstract)