An examination of the intersection between alcohol use and unanticipated consequences for college females

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the intersection between alcohol use and
unanticipated consequences for college females. The second purpose of this study was to
examine how the participants perceived their risk of sexual assault. Prior quantitative
research in this field indicated that binge drinking is a predictor of risky behaviors.
Research also showed that many negative consequences, including sexual assault, can
occur as a result of binge drinking. A qualitative study was conducted to gain a better
understanding of the drinking behaviors of college females in their own voices, as well as
their perceived risk of negative consequences under the influence. General themes and
categories from participant responses were evaluated based on prior research. The
findings of the present study suggest that the college females in this study were aware
that binge drinking can result in negative consequences. Additionally, the participants in
this study had a distorted sense of binge drinking. The negative consequences that the
research participants experienced are evidence of risky behaviors among college females.
These findings are followed by a discussion section linking participant responses to the
prior research. Recommendations for student affairs administrators are also included to
help gain a better understanding of these findings. In return, this understanding could lead
to greater success in curbing drinking behaviors and related negative consequences for
females on college campuses.

Date of Award	2011
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	Eastern Illinois University
Supervisor	Richard Roberts (Supervisor)