Dangerous alcohol consumption in college students is a rampant public health problem in the United States, with the behavior affecting far more than solely academic outcomes. The consequences of risky alcohol consumption can negatively impact the physical and mental health of students, creating the potential for chronic ailments and psychosocial concerns. Interpersonal trauma (IPT) can be described as any remarkably painful experiences caused by another person, and current literature posits this form of trauma is often associated with alcohol consumption. This study aims to identify the effect(s) that a romantic relationship may have on the interaction regarding alcohol use and interpersonal trauma history.
The study’s sample is composed of two analytic subsets of a population of university students who participated in a 5-cohort longitudinal genetics/behavioral health study called “Spit for Science” (Ongoing since 2011, originating at Virginia Commonwealth University). One of these subsets made up a cohort which responded to surveys concerning substance use and included questions regarding relationship status (N=5673). The other subset participated in similar surveys as the first, except this cohort met eligibility criteria of currently being in a romantic relationship (N=3195). The following characteristics of both analytic subsamples were assessed: demographics. pre-college IPT (via modified Life Events Checklist), college-onset ITP (using same instrument as prior variable), relationship status, partner alcohol use, relationship satisfaction (via Relationship Assessment Scale), and personal alcohol use. The data was analyzed using longitudinal hierarchical linear models.
Results of the study found reduced alcohol consumption in students who reported being in a relationship with high satisfaction marks. Additionally, as students’ romantic partners’ alcohol consumption increased, students’ personal alcohol consumption also increased. This interaction between partner and personal alcohol use was found to exacerbate increased alcohol consumption patterns in individuals reporting a history of IPT, in particular IPT which originated during college.
Takeaway: analytic data from subsets of a large, longitudinal behavioral health dataset suggest relationship status may have protective effects on the interaction between pre-college IPT and student alcohol consumption. Relationship satisfaction may demonstrate protective effects for both pre-college and college-onset IPT and alcohol consumption. Students reporting college-onset IPT are at risk for increased drinking based upon their partner’s drinking habits, reinforcing the assertion that interventions should consider students’ romantic lives when addressing risky drinking.