Group Peer Facilitation: Impact on Attitude and Motivation to Reduce Alcohol Use among College Students
Loading...
Authors
Hart, Linda
Issue Date
2011
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
The aim of this study is to evaluate college students' attitudes toward college drinking and to see whether or not there is motivation to change drinking behaviors through participation in peer-led programs and alcohol education. Forty students participated in workshops facilitated by student peer facilitators. Each workshop consisted of two student facilitators and approximately 8-12 students. Students were asked to fill out a pre-assessment questionnaire before the first workshop, consisting of scaled and open-ended questions, which serve as a needs assessment tool. An interactive workshop was presented to students by student peers, allowing students to express their perceptions and opinions about the use of alcohol and drugs. At the end of the workshop, a post-assessment questionnaire was collected. Through the post-assessment questionnaire, evaluation of the data showed that if students found the program motivational and helpful, they felt motivated to change their drinking habits. This study also showed that college students found the available information and harm-reduction tools effective. Peer education proved to be a very good way of learning about drugs and alcohol. While some said they did not plan to change their drinking behaviors, they still felt it was important information to know. This type of intervention may meet the objective of motivating some students to change their attitudes around alcohol and drugs. This intervention might also give college students the tools for harm reduction around alcohol and drugs.