Prediction of Alcohol Consumption Among Fraternity Pledges

This study investigated the relationship between selected background characteristics of fraternity pledges at a Southern university and alcohol consumption during the first month of pledgeship. Subjects consisted of 108 pledges from five fraternities. Data for predictor variables were obtained from a self-report Drinking Survey Questionnaire. Alcohol consumption in absolute alcohol equivalents was obtained via a selfreport drinking calendar. Heavier alcohol consumption was found to be most strongly correlated with a positive view of its socialization value and with prior incidences of problems associated with alcohol use. Lesse relationships were found between consumption and the pattern of religiou practice, the absence or confusion of rules for drinking in the family, and the situation within which drinking was initiated.