Background: Researchers have mostly relied on traditional quantity-frequency measures to describe adolescent drinking. This may be problematic because it makes assumptions about the stability of drinking behavior, but adolescents often report episodes of high levels of alcohol intake followed by periods of little or no use. Methods: We used cognitive interviewing methods, the think-aloud interview and probes, to collect data on the thought processes adolescents use to answer alcohol questions. We recruited 72 adolescents, 24 each aged 12-14, 15-17, and 18-20 years, with a balance of African American and European Americans, and by gender. Responses were summarized by subgroups. Results: In response to a probe asking those who had ever drunk alcohol how they remembered at what age they had their first drink, the circumstances were described in considerable detail, suggesting that this remains a salient event for most adolescents. We asked all respondents what "being drunk" meant. Among 15-17 year olds who reported never having been drunk, definitions focused on social aspects of the behavior. In contrast, 15-17 year olds who had been drunk were more likely to define it in terms of physical experiences. This was observed for both males and females. Among 18-20 year olds who had ever been drunk, the definition was more variable, without any clear associations with other factors. Furthermore, some in this age group indicated that they would differentiate between degrees of drunkenness, for example drunk versus very, very, drunk. Conclusions: Cognitive interviewing can be used to improve questions about alcohol, for adolescents.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: - Describe cognitive interviews as a method for evaluating and improving survey questions. - Recognize that alcohol questions designed for adults may not be appropriate for adolescents
Keywords: Adolescents, Survey
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.