Alcohol Consumption Pattern and Risky Behaviour: A Study of University Of Port Harcourt

Abstract

Alcohol Consumption Pattern (ACP) which include alcohol expectancies, perception of risk, alcohol use and risk behaviour (RB) were examined. In line with existing research, alcohol expectancies were predicted to explain risky behaviour, and risk perceptions were hypothesized to predict alcohol use. Marlatt's expectancy theory which relies heavily on behavioural explanations of drinking, and social influences such as family, peers, and modeling of alcohol use are purported to heavily impact school – related beliefs. The survey method was used in this study. This design has a suggestive character of pointing out relationship between ACP and RB. Factors analysis was used to explain both objective and subjective attributes; identify latent dimensions or constants that direct analysis may not. The study revealed that alcohol consumption pattern predicted alcohol use and risky behaviour, but risk perceptions were not significantly related to risky behaviour and marginally related to alcohol use. Again, the relationship between riskperception and alcohol use was stronger for males than females. The study, recommended that advertising that paints alcohol consumption as good for youths and promotions that promise and actually offer free drinks are banned on University campus; policy makers and brewers should reconsider the economic interest and rise to the global call for action against the rising alcohol-related problem, of which Nigeria is a major contributor.