Screening for Alcohol Risk in Predominantly Hispanic Youths: Positive Rates and Behavioral Consequences

• NCJ Number: 240408
• Journal: Journal of Child & Adolescent Substance Abuse Volume: 21 Issue: 3 Dated: July - August 2012 Pages: 273-291
• Author(s): Joe Tomaka; Rebekah A. Salaiz; Stormy Morales-Monks; Sharon Thompson; Sarah McKinnon; Kathleen O'Rourke
• Date Published: July 2012
• Length: 19 pages
• Grant Number(s): TI 11715
• Sponsoring Agency: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Admin (SAMHSA); Ctr for Border Health Research
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined relationships between CAGE alcohol risk scores and predisposing factors for alcohol use, current alcohol use, and behavioral consequences in a large sample of secondary students.

Abstract

The present study examined relationships between CAGE alcohol risk scores and predisposing factors for alcohol use, current alcohol use, and behavioral consequences in a large sample of secondary students. Students completed the CAGE, measures of demographics, potential predisposing factors, and consequences of alcohol use. More than 18 percent of students screened positive for potential alcohol risk using traditional CAGE criteria, and another 23 percent scored moderate risk using a more liberal criterion. CAGE scores were related to a variety of predisposing factors and were strongly related to current drinking and alcohol-related behavioral consequences. It was recommended that investigators examine multiple options for appropriate alcohol screening instruments. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.