Over half of US college students report experiencing alcohol-related harm caused by others, said a new study. This national survey reveals the significant toll on student health, academics, and well-being. Researchers from Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) surveyed over 1,900 students across 46 colleges. The results show that 53.5 percent of students experienced harm due to someone else’s drinking. These harms include verbal abuse, physical altercations, academic disruptions, and emotional distress.
WHO IS MOST AT RISK?
Sophomores and juniors reported the highest levels of alcohol-related harm. An estimated six million students have experienced at least one such incident. White students, cisfemales, transgender individuals, and gender-nonconforming students face greater risks. Students in Greek life, intercollegiate athletics, and those living with roommates also report higher incidences of harm.
COMMON ALCOHOL-RELATED HARMS
The study identifies babysitting intoxicated peers as the most common harm, affecting 33.8 percent of students. Social harms like psychological distress impact 23.5 percent. Sleep and study disruptions affect 15 percent, while 14.3 percent report verbal harassment.
Emotional neglect, feeling threatened, and unwanted sexual contact are also prevalent. Physical assault impacts 4.3 percent, while academic disruptions like dropping classes affect 3.1 percent.
A CALL FOR ACTION: PROTECTING NON-DRINKERS
Dr. Pamela Trangenstein, study co-author, emphasizes the need to address these harms. “Alcohol misuse creates ripple effects beyond drinkers. Protecting all students is essential to campus well-being,” she says.
POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS
The researchers propose solutions like reducing alcohol availability in campus housing and targeting high-risk groups. Greek life members and athletes may benefit from tailored interventions. They also suggest evidence-based measures like limiting happy hours, increasing alcohol taxes, and offering personalized feedback programs.
LARGER CONVERSATION ON ALCOHOL RISKS
This study adds to growing research highlighting alcohol’s dangers. A recent advisory by the US Surgeon General links alcohol to seven types of cancer. The advisory recommends warning labels on alcoholic beverages.
CHALLENGING CAMPUS DRINKING CULTURE
“College drinking may seem like a rite of passage, but the fallout harms many others,” says Dr. David Jernigan, senior author. “Campuses and governments must do more to protect students.”
