To Drink or Not to Drink? Collective Alcohol Consumption Among Young University Students: Mapping a Path Towards Moderation. A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to develop a theory based on the understanding of collective alcohol use as a cultural phenomenon by exploring the perceptions and meanings attributed to this behaviour by health science university students. Design: This research is a grounded theory study. Method: This study was conducted between 2021 and 2022. Data were collected through 10 focus groups, 15 in-depth interviews, and 44 field journals documenting observations in alcohol consumption settings. A total of 72 health science students participated, including 51 nuring students, 14 medical students, and 7 psychology students from two cities. The data were analysed using Charmaz's constructivist grounded theory approach and coded through constant comparative analysis with Atlas. ti software. Results: The analysis revealed five categories that support the development of the theory: (1) ‘Understanding the Practice of Drinking,’ (2) ‘Replicating Learned Patterns: Cultural Influence,’ (3) ‘Adopting and Taking Risks,’ (4) ‘Confronting Prefabricated Imaginaries with Reality,’ and (5) ‘Reflecting on Mitigating Actions and Alternatives to Problematic Consumption.’ The findings demonstrate that culture significantly influences young adults' behaviours related to alcohol consumption, with a tendency to follow established patterns while accepting the risks involved. Studying health sciences, encourages deeper reflection on these behaviours, potentially guiding moderation in alcohol use. These insights contribute to multicultural nursing practice by examining the dynamics surrounding alcohol consumption and the factors that motivate moderation. Conclusion: Understanding alcohol use among young university students enrolled in healthcare courses as a cultural phenomenon helps identify underlying factors and attitudes that shape these behaviours. This model was used as the foundation for developing a preventive care strategy, with young people and their experiences serving as key elements in its design and implementation.