There is considerable evidence of an alarming association between the pronounced transformation of norms and behaviors and subsequent risk-taking activities among travelers--particularly prevalent among youth. Yet, there is a paucity of comprehensive studies on the health risks of spring-break travelers involving substance abuse and risky sexual practices. Potential public health ramifications extend beyond the traveler to the population and destination visited and travelers' home communities. Triandis' theory of interpersonal behavior--which has been instrumental in explaining health-related behaviors--has been used to examine the unique travel/vacation setting. The objectives of this study are to: (a) assess the role of the spring-break setting as a facilitator of risky behaviors and identify those factors that can explain binge drinking and HIV risk behaviors among college students; (b) evaluate the predictive efficacy of Triandis' model in the travel/vacation context for binge drinking and casual sex in order to develop a sound conceptual model to fully understand both phenomena; (c) provide health educators and policy makers with intervention and prevention strategies; and (d) develop baseline information needed to launch national and longitudinal studies with students and other high-risk migrating groups. Preliminary analysis of 786 surveys, randomly selected in two waves (pre- and post- spring break), has revealed significant gender-related differences in drinking motives, experimentation with substances, and intentions for casual sex. Multivariate analyses focus on cognitive and affective attitudes, social determinants, and personal normative beliefs along with peer influence, and situational expectations as predictors of behavioral intentions and actual HIV risk behaviors.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the presention, the participant will be able to: 1. Understand the epidemiological/public health ramifications of the travel/vacation setting. 2. Identify protective/risk factors underlying risky behavior of college students on spring break. 3. Articulate prevention/intervention strategies to mitigate public health ramifications of risky spring-break behavior
Keywords: Binge Drinking, Risk Taking Behavior
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.