“We’re so proud!”: A Look at How Praise Impacts Binge Drinking Among Adolescents

• In Event: Poster Session 2

Abstract

Objective: There is currently a need for further research on psychosocial factors serving as determinants of binge drinking. Utilizing key concepts from Hirschi’s social control theory, this study aims to answer the question how praise impacts the likelihood that adolescents participate in binge drinking.
Data/Methods: The current research used data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health to assess the relation between praise from parents or teachers through being told “good job” or that they were proud and binge drinking among adolescents. Correlates associated with demographic characteristics, drinking among age groups, risk association, and parental attitudes towards drinking were also assessed.
Results: This study supports findings that social bonds influence deviant behavior, in particular the effects of praise on binge drinking. Through the use of logistic regression, the hypothesis that adolescents with a lack of praise from parental figures or teachers have a higher likelihood of binge drinking is supported. Correlates of binge drinking were identified including age, sex, drinking among age groups, risk association, and parental attitudes towards drinking.
Conclusions: Considering this study’s findings, future research should consider the extent which praise influences binge drinking behaviors and uncover patterns of binge drinking and praise which may exist overtime.

Authors

• Brittany Ashton Teeples, University of Central Florida

• Jason Ford, University of Central Florida