Title |
Health behavior and college students: Does Greek affiliation matter?
|
---|---|
Published in |
Journal of Behavioral Medicine, November 2007
|
DOI | 10.1007/s10865-007-9136-1 |
Pubmed ID | |
Authors |
Lori A. J. Scott-Sheldon, Kate B. Carey, Michael P. Carey |
Abstract |
The college years offer an opportunity for new experiences, personal freedom, and identity development; however, this period is also noted for the emergence of risky health behaviors that place college students at risk for health problems. Affiliation with on-campus organizations such as fraternities or sororities may increase a students' risk given the rituals and socially endorsed behaviors associated with Greek organizations. In this study, we examined alcohol and drug use, smoking, sexual behavior, eating, physical activity, and sleeping in 1,595 college students (n = 265 Greek members, n = 1,330 non-Greek members). Results show Greek members engaged in more risky health behaviors (e.g., alcohol use, cigarette smoking, sexual partners, and sex under the influence of alcohol or drugs) than non-Greek members. Greek and non-Greek members did not differ in condom use, unprotected sex, eating, and physical activity behaviors. Implications for prevention and intervention strategies among Greek members are discussed. |
X Demographics
Geographical breakdown
Country | Count | As % |
---|---|---|
United States | 2 | 67% |
Unknown | 1 | 33% |
Demographic breakdown
Type | Count | As % |
---|---|---|
Members of the public | 2 | 67% |
Scientists | 1 | 33% |
Mendeley readers
Geographical breakdown
Country | Count | As % |
---|---|---|
United States | 2 | 1% |
Canada | 1 | <1% |
Unknown | 162 | 98% |
Demographic breakdown
Readers by professional status | Count | As % |
---|---|---|
Student > Bachelor | 29 | 18% |
Student > Master | 25 | 15% |
Student > Ph. D. Student | 19 | 12% |
Researcher | 18 | 11% |
Student > Doctoral Student | 17 | 10% |
Other | 27 | 16% |
Unknown | 30 | 18% |
Readers by discipline | Count | As % |
---|---|---|
Psychology | 50 | 30% |
Social Sciences | 27 | 16% |
Medicine and Dentistry | 14 | 8% |
Nursing and Health Professions | 9 | 5% |
Agricultural and Biological Sciences | 5 | 3% |
Other | 20 | 12% |
Unknown | 40 | 24% |