National survey data showed that college students drink more than individuals of the same age who are not in college. When college students drink, they sometimes partake in co-use, which is the use of other substances, typically marijuana, and tobacco, while also using alcohol. Co-use is associated with more negative drinking consequences. This study extended the research of the Linden-Carmichael study. The purpose of this study was to examine the possibility of substance co-use being more closely associated with negative reinforcement processes than alcohol-only use.
This study consisted of 1,461 undergraduate students. Data collection took place over nine semesters, and all participants were at least 18 years of age, had drunk alcohol at least twice in the past 30 days, and had no past treatment for alcohol problems. Students first completed an online baseline survey that collected their demographic and drinking motives. Roughly two weeks after that, participants completed a daily diary where they completed brief online surveys. Drinking motives were measured using a modified Motivations for Alcohol Use scale. Daily academic and interpersonal stress and daily substance use were also measured.
The results of this study showed that alcohol co-use, when compared to alcohol-only use, is more closely linked to negative reinforcement processes. Drinking to cope motivation was found to be positively related to alcohol use with two or more other substances. These results could help college campuses with prevention programs by encouraging them to help students cope with the stressors that come with college life.
Takeaway: The results of this study showed that alcohol co-use, when compared to alcohol-only use, is more closely linked to negative reinforcement processes.