The Effect of College Student Spirituality on Alcohol Use and Sexual Behaviors: A Comparison of Faith-Based and Non Faith-Based Institutional NCHA Data

Abstract

College-aged individuals have a significant impact on national health. People in this age group have the highest rates of engagement in many risky health behaviors, such as binge drinking, substance use, and engaging in unprotected sexual activity. The American College Health Association (ACHA) has been actively involved in the study of college health behavior and the initiation of information and services to college health care providers for the past decade. However, little research has been done in this area on sub-populations of the overall college population. This study aims to assess the sub-population of students who attend a faith-based institution. This population is of particular interest due to the significant impact that, both internal and external, religiosity/spirituality have on health behaviors. Data were requested from institutions that have utilized the National College Health Assessment (NCHA-II) and also have identified themselves as Protestant or Other Christian. The data was aggregated and randomly sampled for comparison to a random matched sample from the national reference group. Comparative analyses found significant group differences in the levels of engagement in alcohol use, binge drinking, and number of sexual partners. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone [phone]. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]