Alcohol Availability for Young Navy Personnel
Author Information
Author(s): Roland S. Moore, Genevieve M. Ames, Carol B. Cunradi
Primary Institution: Prevention Research Center, Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation
Hypothesis
High physical and social availability of alcohol in the occupational environment of young adult military members contributes to higher rates of heavy alcohol consumption.
Conclusion
There is qualitative and quantitative evidence for extensive physical and social availability of alcohol in and around bases for young adults in the military.
Supporting Evidence
- 63% of underage respondents found it easy to obtain alcohol on base after work.
- 80% of underage respondents found it easy to obtain alcohol off base after work.
- 88% of respondents reported it was easy to obtain alcohol from friends in the Navy.
- Low prices and drink promotions at nearby off-base clubs contribute to alcohol availability.
- Underage personnel often rely on friends over 21 to purchase alcohol for them.
- Many respondents mentioned Tijuana as a popular destination for underage drinking.
Takeaway
Young sailors can easily find and buy alcohol both on and off their bases, which leads to a lot of drinking, even among those who are underage.
Methodology
The study used qualitative interviews with 50 Navy personnel and a mail survey of 713 young enlisted men and women.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported data and the voluntary nature of participation in the survey.
Limitations
The response rate for the follow-up survey was approximately 40%, which may affect the representativeness of the sample.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 493 male and 220 female enlisted Navy personnel, primarily aged 18 to 29.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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