Free Alcohol Use and Consequences: Gender Differences Among Undergraduates

Objective: To examine gender differences in obtaining free alcohol, high-risk drinking, and consequences. Methods: Web-based surveys were administered annually (2003-2005) to random samples of undergraduates (N=10,729). Results: Gender, race, age under 21, sorority/fraternity membership, lower disposable income, and relationship status were significant predictors of obtaining free alcohol. Frequent obtainers had greater odds of heavy episodic drinking and consequences compared to infrequent obtainers. Females were less likely to report heavy episodic drinking; however, frequently obtaining females were more likely to report heavy episodic drinking. Conclusions: Approximately 25% of undergraduates frequently obtained free alcohol. Females obtained more often, had higher odds of high-risk drinking, and experienced fewer consequences compared to males.