Social and Experiential Drivers of Adolescent Alcohol Use: Evidence from an Exploratory Concept Mapping Study

Area of Science:

• Adolescent Health
• Social Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Understanding adolescent alcohol consumption motivations is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
• Previous research often overlooks the nuanced, participatory perspectives of adolescents themselves.
• Identifying key drivers of drinking behavior in young people is a public health priority.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and rank adolescents' primary motivations for alcohol consumption.
• To utilize a participatory concept mapping approach for in-depth qualitative insights.
• To inform targeted interventions by understanding adolescent-driven reasons for drinking.

Main Methods:

• A concept mapping study involving 39 adolescents (aged 15-16) from a Spanish secondary school.
• Participants generated statements on drinking motivations, grouped them into themes, and rated frequency/importance.
• A five-point Likert scale was used to quantify perceived importance and frequency of motivations.

Main Results:

• Eight clusters of motivations emerged: peer approval, influence, enjoyment, experimentation, fun, disinhibition, social pressure, and coping.
• Enjoyment, peer dynamics, and disinhibition were rated highest for both frequency and importance.
• Motivations related to advertising, social media, and influencers received the lowest ratings.

Conclusions:

• Adolescent alcohol use is significantly driven by enjoyment and peer dynamics, highlighting the impact of social influences.
• Prevention strategies should prioritize fostering alcohol-free social settings and enhancing social-emotional skills.
• Engaging adolescents in the development and implementation of prevention initiatives is recommended.