Evaluating the Positive Drinking Consequences Questionnaire: Support for a Four-Factor Structure and Measurement...

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Addiction Research
• Substance Use Studies

Background:

• Positive drinking consequences are often overlooked in alcohol research.
• Existing measures may not fully capture the multifaceted nature of these experiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To psychometrically evaluate the 14-item Positive Drinking Consequences Questionnaire (PDCQ).
• To explore the factor structure, validity, and reliability of the PDCQ in college students.

Main Methods:

• Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted on data from 1,088 college students.
• Measurement invariance, criterion-related validity, and internal consistency were assessed.

Main Results:

• A four-factor model (Sociability, Tension Reduction, Liquid Courage, Sexual Enhancement) was supported, loading onto a higher-order PDCQ factor.
• The PDCQ demonstrated measurement invariance across gender.
• PDCQ scores correlated positively with alcohol use and negatively with protective strategies.

Conclusions:

• Positive drinking consequences are more complex than previously thought.
• The PDCQ provides a nuanced measure of these consequences.
• Identifying specific positive drinking consequences can improve prevention and intervention efforts.