Citation

Rutledge PC, Park A, Sher KJ. J. Consult. Clin. Psychol. 2008; 76(3): 511-516.

Affiliation

Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, American Psychological Association)

DOI

10.1037/0022-006X.76.3.511

PMID

18540744

PMCID

PMC2668868

Abstract

IN the United States, laws restrict the distribution of alcohol-containing beverages to those who are 21 years of age or older. Despite public recognition of the hazards of 21st birthday drinking, there is little empirical information concerning its prevalence, severity, and risk factors. Data from a sample of 2,518 college students suggest that 21st birthday drinking poses an extreme danger: (a) 4 of every 5 participants (83%) reported drinking to celebrate, (b) birthday drinkers indicated high levels of consumption, (c) 12% of birthday drinkers (men and women) reported consuming 21 drinks, and (d) about half of birthday drinkers exceeded their prior maximum number of drinks. Current problematic alcohol involvement and its typical correlates strongly predicted both the occurrence and severity of 21st birthday drinking. It is imperative that investigators consider a variety of potential interventions to minimize the harm associated with this rite of passage.

Language: en