Higher Learning: On-Campus Purchase and Use of Alcohol and Other Drugs

• In Event: Drug and Alcohol on College Campuses and Among Young Adults

Abstract

For many students the “university experience” involves experimenting with alcohol and other drugs. While research shows that risky drinking practices (e.g., binge drinking) are common among university students, less is known about other drug use. Past studies highlight the prevalence of drug and alcohol use by university students, however these studies fail to capture specific patterns of use. Further, little research has examined the extent to which drug and alcohol use occurs on university campuses. Using data from the “Alcohol and Other Drugs High Risk Population Survey”, a structured interview conducted biannually by the Centre for Addictions Research of BC since 2008, we examine patterns of drug and alcohol use (e.g., drug and alcohol use yesterday and last weekend) by university students, as well as the purchase and use of drugs on campus. We also draw from interviews with personnel from university security services, residence services, and other university departments to examine how those responsible for managing “risky” alcohol and drug use understand the extent to which these substances are available and being used on campus. Through a comparison of these data we make practical policy suggestions with respect to both managing alcohol and other drug use and corresponding harms.

Authors

• Andrew Ivsins, University of Victoria

• Blair Wilkinson, University of Victoria

• Tim Stockwell, University of Victoria

• Kate Vallance, University of Victoria

• Bernie Pauly, University of Victoria

• Clifton Chow, Vancouver Coastal Health