Experiences and opinions of first-year students at a previously disadvantaged medical university in South Africa about alcohol consumption

Abstract

Background:The use of alcohol amongst first-year students in institutions of higher learning is problematic as it often leads to social and academic problems, for instance high dropout rates and high-risk sexual behaviour. Research on first-year students' opinions regarding their own use of alcohol at the University of Limpopo, Medunsa Campus, was seen as pertinent as this institution trains medical doctors, dentists and other health professionals. The findings could inform appropriate interventions by policy-makers at the institution. This paper presents the qualitative data nested from a larger study on alcohol use among firstyear medical students. Methods: A sample of 217 first-year students was obtained, to whom a questionnaire was administered which included open-ended questions formulated from discussions with a focus group of eight first-year students. The open-ended questions were formulated in a manner that allowed participants to give an account of their experience and opinions related to the drinking of alcohol. Thematic content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. Results: The participants comprised 90 (41.5%) females, 13 (6%) White, 196 (90.3%) Black, 4 (1.8%) Asian and 4 (1.8%) Coloured students. The study revealed substantive views relating to first-year students' opinions and experiences of alcohol consumption. Themes gleaned from the interpretation were awareness, physical location of the campus, economic opportunities, health considerations, identity, belief in alcohol use, and interventions. Conclusion:The results indicate that first-year students have varying opinions and experiences concerning alcohol consumption at the University of Limpopo (Medunsa campus). Social identity and peer pressure are motivating factors in students' use of alcohol.

An exploration of alcohol use amongst undergraduate female psychology students at a South African university

“…Household surveys in South Africa found nearly 50% of males and 20% of females consumed alcohol regularly – and this is probably an underestimate. 1 In South Africa, one-third of those who consume alcohol are reported to have risky drinking behaviours over weekends, such as binge drinking. 2…”

“…Heavy alcohol use by tertiary students leads to a variety of alcohol-related problems, such as property damage, poor academic performance, problematic peer relationships, high dropout rates, unprotected sexual activity, physical injuries, date rape and suicide. 1 , 3 Tertiary education students in America and England consume more alcohol than those of similar age who do not attend university. 4 University students see the heavy use of alcohol as normal and as something that is expected of them.…”

“…University students, especially undergraduates, experiment with alcohol, which can lead to physical, social, emotional and academic problems. 1 , 5 Hence, alcohol use by female university students can be harmful to the progress of their tertiary education. As undergraduate students are away from parental or caregiver supervision, they are likely to have an unrealistic sense of independence and may misuse alcohol.…”

“…A tertiary institution in South Africa reported that males and females have similar drinking patterns in terms of when they drink, how much they drink and the types of alcohol they drink. 1 Some students considered excessive drinking by both males and females as problematic. 1 Females have a poor physiological tolerance for alcohol, which may result in long-term social or psychological problems.…”

“… 1 Some students considered excessive drinking by both males and females as problematic. 1 Females have a poor physiological tolerance for alcohol, which may result in long-term social or psychological problems. 7…”