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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
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)