Protective behavioral strategies and negative alcohol-related consequences among US college fraternity and sorority members

Abstract

Objectives: Students affiliated with Greek fraternities/sororities are at greater risk for experiencing negative alcohol-related consequences. Protective behavioral strategies (PBS) appear to decrease these consequences; however, these strategies have yet to be examined specifically with US college fraternity/sorority populations. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between PBS and negative alcohol-related outcomes among fraternity/sorority members.

Methods: We conducted a secondary data analysis of 18 354 US college students (65.3% female) between the ages of 18 and 25 who participated in the Fall 2010 National College Health Assessment-II survey. Using adjusted logistic regression models, we predicted the odds of drinking behaviors, 11 PBS, and 9 negative alcohol-related consequences based on fraternity/sorority membership status.

Results: Compared to non-fraternity/sorority members, fraternity/sorority members were more likely to report using all but two PBS examined in the study. Additionally, fraternity/sorority members were more likely to report binge drinking, driving after drinking, and experiencing negative consequences of alcohol use.

Conclusions: These findings indicate PBS alone may be insufficient for preventing negative outcomes associated with drinking in high-risk groups. Future research should examine if PBS combined with other alcohol use intervention strategies among fraternity/sorority members are more effective at preventing negative outcomes.

• Alcohol
• fraternity and sorority members
• protective behavioral strategies

Acknowledgements

The data for this study were provided by: American College Health Association. American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment, Fall 2010 [computer file]. Baltimore, MD: American College Health Association [producer and distributor]; (2011-06-15). We would like to thank the American College Health Association for providing these data for analysis in the study.

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.