Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #117961

Jolie Haun, MS, EdS, LMT and Tavis Glassman, MSEd, MPH, CHES. Health Education and Behavior, University of Florida, 4100 SW 20th Ave. Apt G-25, Gainesville, FL 32607, 904-377-6796, joliehaun@bellsouth.net

Background: Alcohol misuse is a serious health issue for colleges and universities around the country. A unique challenge concerning campuses is college football game-day. Research indicates that fans typically drink more than non-fans and are more likely to be affected by the behavior-altering effects of alcohol consumption. This study addressed age and gender issues related to game-day alcohol consumption behaviors and consequences of consumption on game-day. Methods: A paper and pencil survey was distributed to 497 respondents to evaluate behaviors of football game attendees related to alcohol at a home college football game. Instrument: Self-administered survey consisted of twenty-seven items related to drinking prevalence, outcomes, opinions, and recognition of a campus alcohol and drug education campaign. Data Analysis: A descriptive discriminant analysis was conducted to determine the dimensions necessary to evaluate differences among the groups. Results: Discriminant variables interpreted were: (1) “alcohol consumption and consequence contrast”: results suggested males reported drinking more than females, but females reported more adverse consequences when drinking on game-day; (2) “alcohol culture”: results suggested that respondents ages 21-26 drink more and perceive that their friends drink more alcohol than those respondents in age groups 18-20 and 27 & older; and (3) “game-day alcohol-related behavior and awareness variable”: results suggested group respondents between ages 24-26 drink more in general and on game-day, and more often frequent bars and tailgating areas, though they are more aware of anti-alcohol campus campaigns than the other age groups. Results provide implications for research and identifying target populations for intervention efforts.

Learning Objectives: Learning Objectives

At the end of this presentation, participants will be able to
• summarize recent research on the effects of college football game-day drinking behaviors;
• discuss the outcome of the survey data analysis;
• identify target groups for intervention and campaign programming; and
• discuss implications for research and practice.

Keywords: College Students, Alcohol

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.