Underage drinking: prevalence and risk factors associated to drinking experiences among Argentinean children

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to describe prevalence of drinking behaviors in children aged between 8 to 12 years old, and to determine which risk factors were the better predictors of drinking experiences. Data was obtained from 362 children aged between 8 and 12 (M = 10.44; SD = 1.213; 61.9% female) whom assisted to nine schools in Cordoba city (Argentina). Scales with adequate psychometric properties were used to assess risk factors (personality, alcohol expectancies, peers? drinking) and alcohol drinking experiences. Prevalence of drinking behaviors and context of alcohol use were assessed using descriptive analyses. Hierarchical regression analysis was performed to determine the contribution of multiple risk factors on alcohol use (none, tasting, drinking). Results showed that a large percentage of children had tasted alcohol and that around one third drank alcohol again after that first drinking experience. Notably, 12- year old children showed significantly higher prevalence of tasting and drinking compare to children from younger ages. Also, this group of older children showed greater frequency and quantity of alcohol use. It was found that underage drinking usually took place under adult supervision in family settings, when parents or other relatives allowed them to drink or were aware of children?s drinking. Results of the hierarchical regression analysis showed being older and male, having more peers that drink alcohol, and having higher levels of extroversion, and alcohol expectancies for social facilitation increased the risk for greater alcohol use. The final model explained 31% of the total variance.