Date of Award

Spring 2007

Project Type

Thesis

Program or Major

Liberal Studies

Degree Name

Master of Arts

First Advisor

David Andrew

Abstract

The perils of collegiate binge drinking are well documented in popular media, frequently in light of athletic or Greek participation. This study was designed to better understand relationships between an expanded list of involvements and the frequency of binging by applying competing theories. Social bond theory predicts all conventional involvements will serve to prevent deviant behavior. In contrast, subcultural theory suggests some involvements will serve to support deviance. Using the College Alcohol Study and OLS regression, this study examined the relationship between involvements and binging, and if the processes operate by gender. The study found some results in alignment with both theories and further found some relationships to be conditioned by gender. Each of the associations found to be conditioned by gender, including Greek membership, athletic participation, and studying were stronger for males. The findings support niche-targeted approaches to both prevention and harm-reduction programming and education about binge drinking.

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