Does one day of drinking matter? 21st birthday drinking predicts subsequent drinking and consequences. (January 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Geisner, Irene M.; Lewis, Melissa A.; Rhew, Isaac C.; Mittmann, Angela J.; Larimer, Mary E.; Lee, Christine M.
• Is Part Of: Addictive behaviors. Volume 64(2017)
• Page Start: 57
• Page End: 61
• Publication Date: 2017-01
• Subjects: Event-specific drinking -- 21st birthday -- Alcohol -- Alcohol-related problems -- College students; Substance abuse -- Periodicals; Alcoholism -- Periodicals; Drug addiction -- Periodicals; Nicotine addiction -- Periodicals; Smoking -- Periodicals; Gambling -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 362.29
• DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2016.08.006
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-4603

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: There has been ample research on college student risks and consequences related to 21st Birthday Drinking. To date, no studies we are aware of have examined how 21st birthday drinking impacts subsequent drinking and related consequences. This study evaluates the effect of a single night of drinking on peak drinking, heavy drinking, and negative consequences over 12 months following the event. Furthermore, we examine if typical drinking behavior prior to 21st birthday moderates the relationship between the event drinking and subsequent use. Method: Participants included 599 college students (46% male) who intended to consume at least five/four drinks (men/women respectively) on their 21st birthday. Screening and baseline assessments were completed approximately four weeks before turning 21. A follow-up assessment was completed approximately one week after students' birthdays and every 3 months for one year thereafter. Results: Those who drank more on their 21st birthday, also reported higher peak consumption, increased likelihood of consequences, and increased number of consequences throughout the year. Additionally, baseline peak drinking moderated the relationship such that those who drank less at peak occasion prior to turning 21 showed the strongest effects of 21st BD drinking on subsequent consumption. Conclusions: 21st BD drinking could impact subsequent choices and problems related to alcohol. Interventions are warranted and implications discussed. Highlights: Examines impact of 21st birthday drinking (BD) on subsequent drinking and problems Regression analysis revealed higher 21st BD had subsequent higher peak drinking. Higher 21st BD had increased likelihood of and number of consequences in year. Less baseline peak drinks had strongest effect of 21st BD on subsequent consumption.