Using CBPR Methods in College Health Research: Exploring Excessive Alcohol Consumption

This study utilized CBPR methods within a college community to gain insight into excessive alcohol consumption. Six student researchers planned and carried out a rigorous qualitative study at a public university in the Northeast region of the United States. A total of 48 undergraduate participants were recruited for focus groups that were facilitated by two student researchers, and transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis methods. Students’ reasons for drinking alcohol were focused within the themes of inclusion, habitual default, and the student development process. Social media, strict policy/enforcement, and student’s desire to avoid responsibility led to increased risk and consequences related to drinking. Students recommended late night transportation and a Good Samaritan policy as strategies to improve student safety. This study led to student advocacy and policy change directed at improving student’s health and safety and demonstrated that CBPR methods show promise for engaging students and producing meaningful data.

Source: Journal of Adolescent Research - January 15, 2016 Category: Child Development Authors: Bulmer, S. M., Barton, B. A., Liefeld, J., Montauti, S., Santos, S., Richard, M., Hnath, L., Pelletier, K., Lalanne, J. Tags: Articles Source Type: research