A closer look at readiness to change in the relationship between social desirability and drinking among young adults

Reducing drinking prevalence among undergraduates is a primary public health goal [1-4]. Most undergraduate students are not of legal drinking age (21 in the U.S.), however, problematic drinking is often reported between ages 18-21 [5]. The literature suggests that college students report heavy drinking at higher prevalence rates relative to non-college peers [6]. Additionally, almost 80% of undergraduate students report drinking alcohol [7]. About 44% drink more than five drinks on one occasion and therefore meet heavy drinking criteria [4,8-12]. Undergraduate alcohol users are more likely to experience unwanted problems including problems with authorities (e.g., DUI), psychosocial problems, hangovers, poor general health, depression, injuries, eating disorders, risky sexual behavior, and sexual assault [8,12-20]. Furthermore, although about 20% of undergraduate students meet alcohol abuse or dependence criteria, less than 5% seek counseling or treatment for alcohol-related problems (NIAAA, 2007). Thus, further research is needed in order to better understand factors that might buffer against problematic drinking and associated health problems among college students.