Multivariate analyses of predictors of heavy episodic drinking and drinking-related problems among college students

The present study examines predictors of heavy drinking frequency and drinking-related problems among more than 600 college students. Controlling for high school drinking frequency, results of multiple regression analyses showed that more frequent heavy drinking was predicted by being male and risk factors of more frequent marijuana and tobacco use. Participating more in prosocial activities served as a protective factor. Drinking-related problems, controlling for drinking frequency, were predicted positively by risk factors of anxiety symptoms and marijuana use and negatively by social justice commitment. Findings suggest the need to address the risk factor of multiple drug use in alcohol abuse prevention and intervention programs.