Parents' Attitudes Linked to Binge Drinking and Greek Life ^{CEFR B2}

Researchers published a study in Behavioral Sciences that links parental attitudes about alcohol to student binge drinking and to joining fraternities or sororities. The team surveyed parents and students both before college and during the first year, with a special focus on "heavy episodic drinking"—defined as four or more drinks on one occasion for women and five or more for men.

The study found two connected outcomes. First, parents who were more permissive about alcohol—sometimes even before students left home—tended to have students who later joined Greek-affiliated organizations. Second, students in fraternities or sororities faced a higher risk of binge drinking and serious harms, including alcohol poisoning and blacking out. The initial transition to college was identified as a particularly high-risk time for heavy drinking.

Lead author Kristi Morrison, a PhD student in Washington State University's prevention science program, and coauthor Jennifer Duckworth, an assistant professor in the human development department, say the findings point to clear opportunities for intervention. The researchers and coauthors recommend parenting programs that promote firm guidelines, support decision-making, and encourage conversations about alcohol risks. One example is the Letting Go and Staying Connected program, which began at Washington State University and has spread to nine other universities across Washington. The paper lists additional coauthors from Washington State University, the Innovia Foundation, and the University of Washington. Source: Washington State University.