Libations and Locations: Understanding the Relationship Between Alcohol Use Behaviors and Residential Proximity to Alcohol Outlets in College Fraternity & Sorority Members at Southeastern Universities

Abstract

Alcohol use among fraternity and sorority members presents a concerning trend with harmful consequences (DeSimone, 2009; McCreary et al., 2021; Nuwer, 2001; Ranker & Lipson, 2022). Central to that trend, the availability theory of alcohol-related problems suggests that alcohol use could be influenced by the availability of alcohol outlets in the environment (Dimova et al., 2023; Kypri et al., 2008; Single, 1984). This study examined the relationship between alcohol consumption behaviors and alcohol outlet proximity with fraternity- and sorority-affiliated students at Southeastern Conference schools. Results indicated a statistically significant relationship between the variables with fraternity members but not with sorority members.