The Role of Religious Beliefs and Behaviors in Predicting Underage Alcohol Use

Abstract

Religious beliefs have consistently emerged as significantly and inversely related to alcohol use. This article seeks further understanding of this relationship by exploring the role of religious behaviors in this relationship in three ways. First, we aim to determine whether the relationship between religious beliefs and alcohol use differs with regard to frequency of participation in religious behaviors. Next, we seek to explore the role of religious behavior as a moderator of the relationship between religious beliefs and alcohol use. We find support for the hypothesis that individuals who possess strong religious beliefs but do not frequently take part in religious practices (e.g., attend services, engage in prayer) would report more frequent alcohol use than those who profess similar beliefs but more frequently participate in religious practices.