How do mandated college student drinkers characterize binge drinking?

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Within the past 30 days, a quarter of U.S. college students reported binge drinking (i.e., consuming ≥ five drinks (male) or ≥ four drinks (female), in about 2 hours). While scholars have refined binge drinking parameters/definitions over time, determining college students’ personal characterization of binge drinking is important as misperceptions can directly impact students’ alcohol use and associated consequences. Objective This study explored differences in college students’ characterization of binge drinking and the effect of overestimating standardized parameters. Methodology This study was conducted at a large public university in the Southeast U.S. among college students who violated campus alcohol-use policies (n = 816). Respondents anonymously completed measures of alcohol frequency and quantity, and binge drinking characterization. Analyses explored the relationship between binge drinking parameters and personal alcohol use. Results Statistically significant differences existed for alcohol consumption between students who underestimated/accurately characterized binge drinking parameters and those who overestimated. Moreover, students who overestimated participated in binge drinking more frequently (p < .001) and were nearly 3.5 times more likely to binge drink than their counterparts. Conclusions Correcting misperceptions, establishing clear and accurate understandings, and eliminating ambiguity associated with alcohol behaviors and norms should be a priority for college health practitioners and administrators.