Citation

Bower BL, Martin M. J. Am. Coll. Health 1999; 48(3): 129-133.

Affiliation

Department of Educational Leadership, Florida State University, Tallahassee, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1999, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/07448489909595684

PMID

10584447

Abstract

The use of drugs and alcohol by National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I African American female basketball players and their reasons for using these substances were examined. The investigation is part of a broader study investigating the use of alcohol, weight-loss products, tobacco, amphetamines, and anabolic steroids by female college athletes. Of the 50 athletes in this study, 72% reported having consumed alcoholic beverages, and 46% had engaged in binge drinking. Only 8% reported using either weight-loss or tobacco products, and there were no reports of using amphetamines or anabolic steroids. Usage patterns indicated that the athletes in the study were aware of the short-term negative effects of alcohol and tobacco; those respondents who did use these products greatly reduced their consumption during the competitive season. Factors found to influence use include social and peer influences and coaches' rules.

Language: en