The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #43219

Heidi L. Hillman, MS, Jannette Berkley-Patton, MA, Kelly L. Mosher, and Kathleen, A. McCluskey-Fawcett, Associate Provos. Social Norms Media Project, University of Kansas, 1450 Jayhawk Blvd., Rm. 36, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-5980, hblaschke@mail.com

College Freshmen are particularly at risk for engaging in heavy alcohol use, as this transitional period is characterized by reduced parent control, increased autonomy, and new social factors such as friendships and new living arrangements. Thus, it is widely recognized that this transitional period significantly increases the vulnerability of freshmen to health risk behaviors and consequences. In this current analysis the authors examined the drinking patterns of 8,545 incoming freshmen attending new student orientation at the University of Kansas in the summers of 1999(n=2473), 2000(n=3307), and 2001(n=3765). The objectives of this study were: (1) to assess drinking patterns of the incoming freshmen,(2) assess alcohol-related consequences and protective factors, and (3)incoming freshmen perceptions of other students. The data show that incoming freshmens' number of alcoholic drinks on last occasion averaged 5-6 drinks for 1999, 2000, and 2001. Negative consequences primarily expereinced by transitioning students included hangovers, being sick, and memory loss. Protective behaviors of this same group included stop drinking alcohol 1-2 hours prior to goping home, setting limits on number of alcoholic drinks, and having designated drivers when drinking. Implications of this study for both high school and college will be discussed.

Learning Objectives: At the end of the presentation, the audience members will be able to

(1)list at least three alcohol-related consequences, (
• describe at least three protective factors used by college students when drinking, and (3)apply and disseminate the presented data (on incoming freshmen drinking patterns) within various environments such as high schools, colleges, or other arenas involving college students.

Keywords: Alcohol, College Students

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: I am employed by the Social Norms Media Campaign as a Graduate Research Assistant