Prevalence of Alcohol Use, Drinking Motives and Negative Alcohol- Related Consequences among Argentinean Young Adults

Abstract

Introduction: High rates of alcohol consumption are observed among young adults, which arise alcohol-related consequences such as physical symptoms, greater consumption than planned, among other problems. However, multiple reasons lead to the increase of alcohol use in Argentinean young adults. Objectives: This study aimed to examine alcohol consumption prevalence and frequency in young adults and to identify drinking motives and alcohol-related consequences. Methodology: A probability sample of 1549 young adults from 18 to 29 years old (M age = 23.6, SD = 3.52; 48.8% women) from Argentinean urban areas answered to the Argentine Social Debt Survey in the third quarter of 2019. Result: We found that 7 out of 10 young adults reported alcohol consumption, among whom 20% had experienced negative alcohol-related consequences at least once in the previous year. Drinkers informed that they are used to drink alcohol because it is expected at social gatherings and since all their friends consume alcohol. Conclusions: Alcohol use is a widespread practice among young people and is associated to negative consequences. Social factors are the main reasons that lead to consumption. Findings raise awareness and contribute to the development of inter- ventions aimed to reduce this risky behavior in young population.