Alcohol and Aquatic Activity: Young Males' Perceptions of Risk and Social Identity Through the Lived Experience

This research explored the lived experiences, risk perceptions and social identity beliefs related to alcohol consumption around water among young Australian males.

Purposive sampling was used to recruit 23 Australian males aged 18-30 who had previously consumed alcohol around water. An online survey collected demographics, eligibility and swimming ability, followed by qualitative telephone interviews. An interview guide developed based on extant literature and team member expertise gathered data on lived experience of alcohol consumption around water, risk perception and social identity. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using a reflexive hybrid thematic approach in NVivo.

With respect to lived experience, participants described consuming alcohol around water primarily as a social and unplanned activity, often occurring with friends and family and in locations lacking formal safety measures. In terms of risk perception, despite recognising the dangers of consuming alcohol around water, many underestimated personal risks and overestimated their risk assessment abilities. Concerning social identity, participants identified typical individuals engaging in these activities as young, predominantly male and sensation-seeking, often viewed as socially undesirable and reckless. However, many did not see themselves as fitting this description, instead describing their behaviour as more cautious and responsible.

This study provides valuable insights into how lived experiences, risk perceptions and social identities influence young Australian males' decisions to consume alcohol around water. So what?: The findings underscore the need for targeted public safety campaigns and interventions that leverage lived experiences and psychological insights to effectively reduce alcohol-related risks in aquatic environments.