Keywords

alcohol use, binge drinking, college students, mass media campaign, nursing student-faculty collaboration

 

Authors

  1. Kessler, Theresa A. PhD, RN, ACNS-BC, CNE
  2. Kurtz, Christine P. DNP, RN, PMHCNS-BC, CNE

Abstract

Background: The college years are a time of transition in which students experiment with behaviors including use of alcohol. Nursing students can be instrumental in supporting positive health behaviors and influencing the drinking culture.

 

Purpose: This article describes the findings of a collaborative nursing student-faculty research project about alcohol use with a focus on binge drinking.

 

Methods: Using a nursing student-faculty collaborative model, a longitudinal design was used to evaluate a mass media campaign with social norming messages and education to influence the drinking culture on a college campus.

 

Results: Students in Greek life and athletics engaged in binge drinking significantly more than other students. Students observed the mass media messages, with 81.9% viewing posters. A significant decrease in binge drinking was reported.

 

Conclusions: The nursing student-faculty team implemented a mass media campaign, which was effective at influencing the drinking culture on a college campus.