Impact of Recent Alcohol Use and Frequent Episodic Heavy Drinking on School Violence Among Hispanic Youth

Hispanic youth are disproportionately affected by alcohol use and school violence. Research is needed to specifically examine factors placing Hispanic youth at higher risk. This study analyzed school violence based on recent alcohol use (past 30 days) and frequent episodic heavy drinking among 7–12th grade Hispanic students (n = 946) in Greater Cincinnati schools. This study examined differences based on sex and grade level. The PRIDE national survey was administered to youth in their classrooms. One in three (35.1 %) students was involved in school violence in the past year. Recent alcohol use and frequent episodic heavy drinking significantly increased the odds for school violence among males, females, junior high and high school youth. The impact of alcohol use on school violence was equivalent between males and females, however, it was much more pronounced among junior high than high school students. These results may be helpful for health educators and professionals in the field in developing prevention programs for substance use and school violence among Hispanic youth. Prevention programs should seek to incorporate culturally competent material for youth of diverse backgrounds. Additional factors should be examined to determine additional variables associated with substance use and school violence among Hispanic youth.