Factors associated with the stages of alcohol use among inner city school youth

This study explored stages of alcohol acquisition and risk-factors associated with stages based on the Multi-Component Motivational Stages model. Two hundred fifty-four sixth-eighth grade students from an urban school completed a confidential questionnaire. Most students were in a precontemplation stage (86%), preparation stage (6%), or action stage (5%) for alcohol use. Significant differences were found across stage status on 11 of 22 risk factors. Discriminant analysis results indicated alcohol use, perceived prevalence of alcohol consumption, and intentions to drink in the future successfully discriminated youth in action and preparation from those in precontemplation and contemplation stages. Meanwhile, tobacco use discriminated students in preparation and action stages. Multiple regression analysis showed alcohol use was the most powerful predictor of acquisition stage status, followed by intentions, influenceability, and perceived severity of alcohol use. Implications for school-aged youth alcohol use prevention are discussed.