Differential Prediction of Alcohol Use and Problems: The Role of Biopsychological and Social‐Environmental Variables

Abstract

This study examined the differential prediction of alcohol use and problems by biopsychological (i.e., affective and cognitive variables) and social‐environmental (i.e., social norms) variables. Undergraduate students (N = 231) were assessed twice separated by a 30–day interval. Time 1 impulsivity, affect lability, social norms, and perceived conflict between personal strivings and alcohol use were each significant predictors of alcohol use–related problems at Time 2 (T2). Structural equation models indicated that impulsivity and affect lability were related directly with use‐related problems, while social norms and use‐strivings conflict were related indirectly with use‐related problems (mediated by use frequency). Impulsivity moderated the T2 use to use‐related problems relationship. Use frequency was associated more strongly with use‐related problems among more impulsive participants.

• Alcohol
• Affect
• Impulsivity
• Goals
• Social norms