Sex Differences in the Relationship Between Protective Behavioral Strategies and Alcohol-Related Consequences Among High School Seniors

Background

Adolescent alcohol use is a significant public health concern in the United States. Protective behavioral strategies (PBS) can minimize risk associated with alcohol use. To date, however, no studies have examined sex differences in PBS use and alcohol-related consequences among high school students.

Objectives

The aims of this study are to examine sex differences in PBS use and to examine sex as a moderator of the relationship between PBS and alcohol-related consequences among high school seniors.

Methods

Participants (N = 129) completed questionnaires on PBS, alcohol-related consequences, and alcohol use.

Results

Females used PBS significantly more frequently than males. Further, the frequency of using Manner of Drinking (MD) strategies was inversely associated with alcohol-related consequences for females and males. Sex moderated the relationship between use of Serious Harm Reduction (SHR) strategies and alcohol-related consequences. Specifically, among females, SHR was inversely associated with alcohol-related consequences. In contrast, SHR was positively associated with alcohol-related consequences for males. Use of Stopping/Limiting Drinking (SLD) strategies was not significantly associated with alcohol-related consequences.

Conclusions

Female students may benefit more from the use of PBS, particularly SHR strategies, than male students. Findings provide sex-specific information to guide harm-reduction prevention efforts related to PBS.