Hiding in Plain Sight: Low Risk Drinkers in the Greek System

Background: The perception on many college campuses is that most “Greek” members are high risk drinkers (HRDs) who frequently put themselves and their peers at risk for alcohol-related negative consequences. Purpose: While HRDs are more likely to be involved in the Greek system, nearly 33% of Greeks may be classified as low risk drinkers (LRDs). Significance: Three important questions are explored: (1) Are LRD and HRD Greeks similar in their perception of peer drinking norms? (2) Do LRD Greeks use similar protective behavioral strategies when consuming alcohol? (3) What are the prevalence rates of negative consequences experienced as a result of alcohol consumption for LRDs compared with HRD Greeks? Methodology: A secondary analysis of the spring 2008 ACHA-National College Health Assessment is conducted with data from 276 Greek members from three universities. Multivariate analyses are used to determine the prevalence rates of Greek LRDs, personal use, perceptions of “typical student” alcohol consumption, protective behavioral strategies and experience of negative consequences associated with alcohol use among HRD and LRD Greeks. Results: LRD Greeks believe the “typical student” consumes less alcohol, and are more likely than HRDs to use six of ten protective behaviors. HRDs are more likely to use protective behaviors that prevent some negative consequences, yet allow them to continue drinking at relatively higher rates. Conclusions: LRD Greeks consume alcohol in a high risk environment yet they neither increase their own rate of alcohol consumption to match HRD peers, nor are they prone to misperception regarding “typical student” alcohol consumption.