Rapid assessment for the prevalence of alcohol (ab)use among emerging adults in NYC nightlife using time-space sampling: A preliminary report

Many researchers have identified both the prevalence and negative consequences of binge drinking behaviors among emerging adults (ages 18-29); however much of this research has been focused to college-based convenience samples.

Methods. Using a time-space sampling methodology, an exhaustive list of nightclubs/bars/lounges in NYC was enumerated and randomized. Between December 22, 2006 and January 20, 2007 fifteen teams of two attended randomly selected venues on Friday and Saturday nights, and, using PDA devices, conducted an anonymous survey of 332 emerging adults (n[male] = 149, n[female] = 182, 37.7% persons of color) as they were entering/exiting these establishments.

Results. Nearly all participants (98% of men, 97% of women) reported that they drink alcohol. Among drinkers, out of the last 90 days, men averaged significantly more drinking days (M = 33.5, SD = 25.25, Range 1-90) than women (M = 24.2, SD = 21.29, Range 1-90, t [318] = 3.58, p < .001), and were more likely to have reported binge drinking (91.0% v. 82.3%, χ² [1] = 5.01, p < .05). Further, women averaged 53.1% of drinking days spent binge drinking and men averaged 54.4% of drinking days binge drinking. Additional results on the relationship between drinking and sexual behavior will be discussed. Conclusions. Time-space sampling methodology within nightlife establishments proved effective in identifying the magnitude in which emerging adults are drinking, binge drinking, and having sex while under the influence of alcohol. The data indicate it may be possible to detect and screen for substance (ab)use in these types of settings.