The Virtuous Drinker: Character Virtues as Correlates and Moderators of College Student Drinking and Consequences |
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| Authors: | Diane E Logan PhC Jason R Kilmer PhD G Alan Marlatt PhD |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Psychology, Addictive Behaviors Research Center , University of Washington , Seattle, Washington;2. Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences , University of Washington , Seattle, Washington;3. Department of Psychology , University of Washington , Seattle, Washington |
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| Abstract: | Abstract Objective: The present study examined the relationship between alcohol use and positive psychology's character virtues 1 Peterson, C and Seligman, M EP. 2004. Character Strengths and Virtues: A Handbook of Classification, Oxford: University Press. Google Scholar] in a college student sample. Each of the virtues of wisdom, courage, humanity, justice, temperance, and transcendence were examined as protective factors and moderators of drinking consequences. Participants: This sample included 425 undergraduate students at a large Northwest University (69% female; 52% Caucasian, 34% Asian). Methods: Participants completed paper and pencil questionnaires during October and November 2006 in exchange for extra credit in psychology classes. Results: Higher temperance scores were associated with abstinence, lower risk drinking, and fewer consequences among heavy drinkers; both increased justice and transcendence were independently associated with abstinence only; and wisdom, courage, and humanity were not associated with any outcomes. Conclusions: The associations between virtues and college student drinking support a collaboration between addictive behaviors and positive psychology to address college student drinking and minimize consequences. |
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| Keywords: | alcohol alcohol-related consequences character virtues college students |
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