University Characteristics as Correlates of Student Alcohol Use: A Multisite National Study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Higher Education Studies
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Student alcohol consumption remains a significant public health concern in higher education.
• Understanding factors influencing student drinking behaviors is crucial for developing effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between university characteristics and student alcohol use.
• To identify specific institutional factors that may predict higher likelihood of drinking and alcohol use disorder scores.

Main Methods:

• A multilevel modeling approach was used with data from 6,139 students across 30 U.S. universities.
• Student demographics and Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) scores were collected.
• University characteristics included organizational, physical/behavioral, and campus community variables.

Main Results:

• Students at universities with a lower percentage of commuters reported a higher likelihood of drinking.
• Higher drinking likelihood was observed in the Northeast and Midwest regions compared to the West.
• Students in the Midwest region exhibited higher AUDIT scores compared to those in the Southeast and Southwest.

Conclusions:

• Specific university characteristics are demonstrably linked to student alcohol use outcomes.
• Findings suggest that institutional factors play a role in shaping students' drinking behaviors.
• Incorporating university characteristics into policy development could aid in reducing heavy alcohol consumption on campuses.