May the knowledge of the effects of alcohol consumption influence binge drinking practices? An analysis of focus group data

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective Harmful drinking patterns are changing the lifestyles of young people. Today, binge drinking is a widespread health-damaging practice in many countries. This research aimed to investigate the participants’ views on alcohol abuse to determine whether prior knowledge of the adverse effects of alcohol can be a limiting factor for inappropriate drinking behavior. Methods Four focus group interview sessions were conducted with 32 participants. Two target groups of young adults between 18 and 24 were identified to detect differences in behavior: university students with prior knowledge of alcohol products and their effects and individuals without expertise. Results Results show no substantial differences in excessive drinking practices in the analyzed target groups. Harmful consumption patterns occur independently of young people’s awareness of the adverse health effects of inappropriate alcohol consumption. Conclusions Preventive education on the harmful effects of alcohol does not seem to be a sufficient condition to discourage binge drinking practices.