Results of a two-year longitudinal study of beverage-specific alcohol use among adolescents

This study explored beverage-specific alcohol consumption patterns among a sample of high school students over a two-year period. Four hundred fifty-five students completed the validated questionnaire at all three time points (2002, 2003, 2004). Variables of interest included five use measures (past year use, 30-day frequency, quantity, heavy use, chugging), each measured for six beverages (beer, wine, flavored coolers, fortified wine, liquor, malt liquor). Descriptive statistics and repeated measures MANOVAs revealed differences in beverage-specific consumption patterns over time, with liquor use increasing, wine use decreasing, and the remaining beverages showing no changes; and differences in beverage choice and drinking patterns by gender and ethnicity. Results indicate need for testing interventions that: target beverages most popular among students including those used earlier and later in high school; are sensitive to gender and ethnic differences; and address perceptions about specific beverages and their unique risks in order to reduce adolescent alcohol consumption.