Study on Alcohol Policy Enforcement and Changes in Student Drinking Rates
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October 29, 2010
Heavy alcohol use among U.S. college students is a major contributor to young adult morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to examine whether college alcohol policy enforcement levels predict changes in student drinking and related behaviors in a state system of public colleges and universities, following a systemwide change to a stricter policy. Study findings suggest that stronger enforcement of a stricter alcohol policy may be associated with reductions in heavy drinking rates among students over time. An aggressive enforcement stance by deans may be an important element of an effective college alcohol policy.
Results are published in the journal Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy.
“Alcohol Policy Enforcement and Changes in Student Drinking Rates in a Statewide Public College System: A Follow-up Study.” Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy 5: 18, 2010.