Perceptions of Campus Alcohol Policies Among College Administrators

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) Task Force on College Drinking recommends adopting campus-based policies that are capable of producing results (2002). Such policies may include: banning alcohol in dorms, common areas, sporting events, and on-campus parties; banning alcohol advertisements, promotions, and sponsorships; and providing alcohol-free activities on campus. While research exists demonstrating the potential for these policies to affect college student's drinking behaviors, very few studies have enumerated what policies are currently being implemented at institutions, and research on the challenges to enforcing these policies is limited. Using the Social Ecological Model (SEM), this study sought to examine alcohol policies implemented at colleges in the southeastern United States, as well as challenges and recommendations to enforcing such policies. Telephone interviews were conducted with 4 distinct types of administrators (Vice President of Student Affairs, Director of Housing, Director of Judicial Affairs, and Director of Greek Affairs) from 24 different universities. Preliminary analyses suggest alcohol use during football games, inconsistent enforcement of alcohol policies, and contradictory messages regarding alcohol use are the most common challenges to enforcing college alcohol policies. Results from this study may inform stakeholders on implementation of effective alcohol policies on college campuses, while increasing awareness of challenges to enforcing such strategies.