Associations between alcohol-related concerns, normative perceptions of peer alcohol use, and veterans’ drinking behavior over six months

Abstract

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has implemented initiatives to increase rates of brief alcohol counseling (BAC). Half of eligible veterans do not receive such care. Understanding patient characteristics associated with drinking behavior may identify patients for whom BAC may be acceptable. Data collected from veterans between January 2010 and September 2011 (N = 167) were examined. Results find that alcohol-related concerns and perceptions of peer alcohol consumption are associated with reduced drinking behavior. These findings suggests that assessing drinking concerns and perceptions of peer alcohol use may help to identify patients interested in changing drinking behavior, receiving care, and assist providers in delivering appropriate counseling.

• Brief alcohol counseling
• normative perceptions of peer alcohol use
• primary care

Acknowledgements

This research was supported by a Career Development Award – 2 (CDA 08-004) to Dr. Cucciare, by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D) Service.

Declaration of interest

The views expressed are the authors’ and do not necessarily reflect those of the VA. No conflicts of interests are reported by any of the authors listed on this manuscript.