Problem drinking and sensation seeking among college students.

Abstract

Problem drinking or binge drinking is an all too common subject in college settings, leading to negative consequences for the binge drinkers and those within their environment. In an attempt to find a connection between binge drinking, this study investigated the relationship between problem drinking and sensation seeking. Problem drinking was defined using Michigan's Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST) and self reported drinking behavior the week prior to data collection. Having five or more drinks in five hours or less constituted binge drinking. Sensation seeking was determined by scores on Zuckerman' s Sensation Seeking Scale Form V. The 38 male and 3] female, volunteer participants completed MAST, SSS-V, and a demographic form. Several statistical analyses were utilized to analyze the data. Results indicated that more men than women binge drink and sensation seek. There was also a positive correlation between the MAST and the Total sensation seeking score, and the only subscale significantly correlated with the MAST was the Disinhibition subscale. This same subscale is also positively correlated with binge drinking.