Associations between alcohol-related concerns, normative perceptions of peer alcohol use, and veterans' drinking behavior over six months. (April 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cucciare, Michael A.; Blonigen, Daniel M.; Sox-Harris, Alexander
• Is Part Of: Journal of substance use. Volume 20:Number 2(2015:Apr.)
• Page Start: 128
• Page End: 135
• Publication Date: 2015-04
• Subjects: Substance abuse -- Periodicals; Medication abuse -- Periodicals; 362.2905
• DOI: 10.3109/14659891.2013.868935
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1465-9891

Abstract

<abstract> <title>Abstract</title> <p>The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has implemented initiatives to increase rates of brief alcohol counseling (BAC). Half of eligible veterans do not receive such care. Understanding patient characteristics associated with drinking behavior may identify patients for whom BAC may be acceptable. Data collected from veterans between January 2010 and September 2011 (<italic>N</italic> = 167) were examined. Results find that alcohol-related concerns and perceptions of peer alcohol consumption are associated with reduced drinking behavior. These findings suggests that assessing drinking concerns and perceptions of peer alcohol use may help to identify patients interested in changing drinking behavior, receiving care, and assist providers in delivering appropriate counseling.</p> </abstract>