NCJ Number
138017
Journal
British Journal of Addiction Volume: 87 Dated: (1992) Pages: 723-732
Date Published
1992
Length
10 pages
Annotation
One of the major aims of this British study was to assess the accuracy of measuring alcoholic beverage consumption with respondent diaries compared to measures based on the usual quantity and frequency of consumption.
Abstract
Other aims were to examine the contexts within which drinking occurs, sex differences in drinking habits, and reasons for drinking. How different types of drinkers rate their motivations for drinking and the outcomes of having a drink were also investigated. Over a 2-week period 122 college students completed a diary of their drinking habits and reasons for drinking. They were also administered a structured questionnaire on drinking habits and attitudes. Daily consumption based on the diary was compared with consumption based on a quantity-frequency measure within the questionnaire. The study found no significant differences between estimates of consumption based on the to measures, and both measures were highly correlated. The questionnaire was more accurate, however, in classifying drinkers and nondrinkers. It also more accurately identified those classified as hazardous and harmful drinkers. Sex differences in beliefs about drinking, as well as differences according to drinker classification, were also found. Unsafe drinkers rated their drinking episodes as significantly more satisfying, comforting, and exciting than other drinkers, and they were more likely to drink to get drunk and to relax. Their beliefs, attitudes, and intentions also were more favorable toward the consumption of alcohol. Hotels or clubs were the most preferred locations for beer and spirits consumption; wine was consumed primarily at home. Most drinking occurred within a mixed group or with close friends. Findings are discussed in terms of the relative advantages of both diary and quantity-frequency questionnaire methods. 4 tables and 29 references