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HOME arrow Editorials arrow No Thanks, I Go to UTA
No Thanks, I Go to UTA PDF Print E-mail
Written by manager   
Wednesday, 27 March 2002 12:00 AM
UTA seems to be perpetually falling short of its stated goal of being a more “traditional” campus. While this is often a source of chagrin to students, alumni and faculty, it may be to the university’s benefit in one area. According to recently released statistics, UTA has proportionately far fewer binge drinkers than the national average.

Binge drinking is usually defined as drinking five or more drinks in a row for men or four in a row for women. A Harvard study concluded that 44 percent of college students nationwide are binge drinkers — UTA’s is 25 percent.

The reasons for this are some of the same factors that make UTA an untraditional school in other regards as well. UTA has fewer students in the 18-23 age group than most schools. Harvard’s study included a far greater percentage of students in this category. These students often don’t face many of the same demands older students may face, including raising children or financially supporting themselves.

Diversity of students may also play a role. As university officials pointed out, many university students come from other countries where binge drinking is not as prevalent as it is here. Furthermore, UTA is ethnically diverse — According to the Harvard study, white students are the most likely to engage in binge drinking, whereas Asians and blacks are the least likely.

The Chronicle of Higher Education, which reported the Harvard study’s results, outlined two approaches commonly taken by universities to combat binge drinking. One favors behavior modification through enacting laws and regulations. The other favors what UTA officials have compared to peer pressure — letting students know that there are other options, and it is OK not to drink.

University officials say they favor the second. Their work can be seen around campus, including in ads placed in The Shorthorn, with messages such as “75% of UTA students consume 0-4 drinks when they party.”

We commend those at UTA who abstain from harmful behavior, and also those who help them feel comfortable doing so.
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