African American Female Basketball Players: An Examination of Alcohol and Drug Behaviors

Abstract

The use of drugs and alcohol by National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I African American female basketball players and their reasons for using these substances were examined. The investigation is part of a broader study investigating the use of alcohol, weight-loss products, tobacco, amphetamines, and anabolic steroids by female college athletes. Of the 50 athletes in this study, 72% reported having consumed alcoholic beverages, and 46% had engaged in binge drinking. Only 8% reported using either weight-loss or tobacco products, and there were no reports of using amphetamines or anabolic steroids. Usage patterns indicated that the athletes in the study were aware of the short-term negative effects of alcohol and tobacco; those respondents who did use these products greatly reduced their consumption during the competitive season. Factors found to influence use include social and peer influences and coaches' rules.

Key Words:

• African Americans
• alcohol use
• college students
• female athletes

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Malissa Martin

Beverly L. Bower is an assistant professor in the Department of Educational Leadership at Florida State University in Tallahassee. Malissa Martin is an assistant professor in the Department of Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Safety at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro.