Women's Childhood and Adult Experiences Linked to Binge Drinking
Author Information
Author(s): Christine Timko, Anne Sutkowi, Joanne Pavao, Rachel Kimerling
Primary Institution: Center for Health Care Evaluation, Department of Veterans Affairs
Hypothesis
What are the sociodemographic, physical and mental health, and adverse adult and childhood experiences associated with binge drinking among women?
Conclusion
Identifying characteristics of women who engage in binge drinking is a key step in prevention and intervention efforts.
Supporting Evidence
- Binge drinking prevalence was found to be 9.3% among the sample.
- Women with adverse childhood experiences were more likely to engage in binge drinking.
- Poor mental health symptoms were associated with increased binge drinking.
- Adverse experiences in adulthood also contributed to binge drinking rates.
Takeaway
This study found that women who had tough experiences as children, like living with someone who abused substances, are more likely to binge drink as adults.
Methodology
Data were collected from the California Women's Health Survey, a population-based, random-digit-dial survey.
Potential Biases
Recall bias may have influenced self-reports of adverse experiences.
Limitations
The study's cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, and self-reports may underestimate alcohol consumption.
Participant Demographics
The sample consisted of women aged 18 years or older, with a mean age of 32.6 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 1.17–1.76
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website