An Examination of State and Trait Anxiety Levels among College Students Based on the Students' Alcohol Usage

Abstract

This study examines anxiety and level of alcohol consumption among college freshman and sophomore student's to determine if state and trait anxiety are significant factors in high risk alcohol consumption or binge drinking. The State Trait Personality Inventory (STPI) and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) were administered to gather data on anxiety and alcohol consumption level. The investigation seeks to identify specific personality factors in college students' that impact high risk alcohol consumption and binge drinking in the undergraduate population. Specifically, state and trait anxiety are examined to determine their effect upon college freshmen and sophomores drinking practices. The study provides an understanding of the effect of anxiety on college students. This information is evaluated so that student affairs department's and counseling centers can work together to identify factors behind high risk alcohol consumption and develop programming to address wellness and the prevention of excessive alcohol usage in the undergraduate population. This study examines the literature regarding the changing mental-health needs of the 21st-century student and also investigates the drinking practices of first and second year students to further understand the factors behind excessive alcohol usage and binge drinking. [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.]