A qualitative examination of drinking patterns among community college students. Issue 2 (17th February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Thind, Herpreet; Rosen, Rochelle K.; Barnett, Nancy P.; Walaska, Kristen; Traficante, Regina; Bock, Beth C.
• Is Part Of: Journal of American college health. Volume 69:Issue 2(2021)
• Page Start: 215
• Page End: 221
• Publication Date: 2021-02-17
• Subjects: Alcohol -- community college students -- focus group discussion -- heavy drinking -- qualitative study; College students -- Health and hygiene -- United States -- Periodicals; College students -- Health and hygiene -- Periodicals; College students -- Mental health -- Periodicals; Universities and colleges -- Health promotion services -- Periodicals; 362.10883781980973
• DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2019.1661421
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0744-8481

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: The purpose of this study was to gain insight about patterns of alcohol use and related consequences among heavy drinking community college students. Participants: About 26 community college students (Mean age 22.3 years, 46% men, 69% White) participated in this study between January and April 2013. Methods: Five qualitative focus group discussions were conducted during formative research preceding a text message intervention; participants were asked about common drinking behavior patterns among community college students, as well as how age and gender affect drinking. Sessions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Participants also completed a brief quantitative survey about their drinking behavior and its consequences. Results: Qualitative data identified several themes: (1) reasons for drinking, (2) drinking occasions, (3) age- and experience-related differences in drinking, including patterns specific to community college students and women. Conclusion: Research is needed to develop innovative strategies to reduce alcohol harm in this understudied population.