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"I got your back": friends' understandings regarding college student spring break behavior
Megan E Patrick1, Nicole Morgan, Jennifer L Maggs
1Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1248, USA. meganpat@isr.umich.edu
Journal of Youth and Adolescence
|February 26, 2010
Summary
Peer agreements on risky behaviors like binge drinking and unprotected sex during university breaks can predict harmful outcomes. These understandings highlight potential targets for prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Public Health
- Adolescent Health
Background:
- University breaks, such as Spring Break, are associated with increased health and safety risks, including binge drinking and unprotected sex.
- Peer influences and shared understandings play a significant role in shaping adolescent and young adult behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between peer understandings regarding alcohol and sexual behaviors and actual behaviors during Spring Break.
- To determine if these peer understandings predict risk-taking behaviors and negative consequences.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to 651 college students (48% male) assessing their peer understandings about alcohol and sexual behavior during Spring Break.
- Statistical analyses controlled for previous semester behavior and Spring Break trip participation.
Main Results:
- "Get Drunk Understandings" predicted increased binge drinking and alcohol-related consequences.
- "No/Safe Sex Understandings" predicted condom use.
- "Sex Understandings" predicted non-condom use.
Conclusions:
- Peer understandings regarding Spring Break activities are significant proximal predictors of risky behaviors.
- These understandings represent potential targets for developing effective, event-specific prevention programs for college students.
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