Drinking patterns, psychosocial characteristics and alcohol consequences.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to investigate (a) the potential mediating role of alcohol consumption in the relationship between psychosocial variables and adverse consequences of drinking, and (b) the possible moderating role of psychosocial variables in the relationship between alcohol consumption and adverse consequences.


METHODS
Multi-stage sampling procedures were used to select households for a general population survey. Interviews were conducted with one member in each of 35, 479 households and self-administered questionnaires were left for all residents aged 12 years and older (N = 49 164, response rate: 77.2%).


METHODS
Data were collected as part of the Ontario (Canada) Health Survey.


METHODS
The present study included 33, 568 current drinkers aged 18 or older.


METHODS
Analyses included the following variables: alcohol consumption, adverse consequences related to drinking, sex, age, marital status, self-rated health, perceived stress, income, education, employment status and family dysfunction.


RESULTS
Alcohol consumption appeared to mediate the relationship of adverse consequences with age, sex, marital status, education, income and employment, but not with health, stress or family dysfunction which were independently associated with adverse consequences. The relationship between alcohol consumption and adverse consequences was moderated by age, marital status, education and employment.


CONCLUSIONS
These results help to clarify the interrelationship of alcohol consumption and psychosocial characteristics in experiencing adverse consequences related to drinking.
Kunz
J L
JL
Clinical Social and Evaluation Research Department, Addiction Research Foundation, London, Ontario, Canada.
Graham
K
K
D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000428:Alcohol Drinking / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000523:psychology*; D000435:Alcoholic Intoxication / Q000150:complications; D004651:Employment; D005190:Family; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012737:Sex Factors