LEISURE-TIME USE AND ACADEMIC CORRELATES OF ALCOHOL-ABUSE AMONG HIGH-SCHOOL-STUDENTS

High school students use of alcohol is examined in relation to leisure time use and attitudes toward school climate. Male and female students in grade 10 (n = 115) and grade 12 (n = 107) in a rural Pennsylvania high school were surveyed. Heavy use of alcohol correlated with participation in social and vocational activities. Heavy users enjoyed school and school subjects less, had greater potential for conflicts with teachers, and received lower grades. This study demonstrates heavy alcohol use bears a relationship to aspects of social and vocational behaviors and attitudes required for healthy and positive adolescent development. The results of this study cloud the generalized detrimental effects from high school students' heavy use of alcohol.