Exploring Differences in Demographic Variables and Alcohol Consumption amongst University Student-Athletes

Abstract

University student-athletes have a high propensity to engage in risky behaviours, which result in negative health-related outcomes. Among the risky behaviours is alcohol consumption. This study was conducted to explore differences in gender, age and type of sport and alcohol consumption among university student-athletes. A quantitative research approach was used for the study. Coaches who were closely associated with student-athletes at three different universities administered a questionnaire to 400 athletes. Descriptive statistics using frequencies and percentages were used to report the demographic data. ANOVA were used to determine the differences between alcohol consumption, gender and type of sport. A negative statistically significant relationship between gender and years of study (-0.02) was found. A practically significant medium effect (0.44) was found between gender and type of sport. A practically significant relationship with a medium effect (0.31) was found between quantity consumed and frequency of consumption. The practice therefore, should be monitored closely, as it may have serious consequences on their athletic and academic careers.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n23p820