The Role of Religious Orientation on Adult Alcohol Use

Abstract

Data from a sample of 117 adult Christians were used to determine if levels of religious orientation predicted quantity and frequency of alcohol use. The predictive relationship between alcohol expectancies and quantity of frequency of alcohol use was also explored, as well as the mediating effects of alcohol expectancies in the relationship between religious orientation and alcohol use. Results revealed alcohol expectancies to predict both quantity and frequency of alcohol use, suggesting alcohol use to be influenced by beliefs held about alcohol. However, results indicated religious orientation was not predictive of either quantity or frequency of alcohol use, and consequently, alcohol expectancies did not mediate the relationship between religious orientation and alcohol use. These findings were found to be inconsistent in light of previous findings. Inferences derived from these results, including strengths and limitations, and directions for future research are also discussed.