| Health Factors: |
Alcohol & Drug Use
|
|---|---|
| Decision Makers: |
Educators
|
| Evidence Rating: | |
| Population Reach: | 1-9% of WI's population |
| Impact on Disparities: |
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Campus alcohol bans at colleges and universities limit consumption of alcohol in designated areas. Bans can restrict consumption of alcohol anywhere on campus or ban alcohol only in specific areas such as residence halls.
There is insufficient evidence to determine whether banning alcohol on college campuses reduces underage and excessive drinking. Available evidence suggests that limiting access to alcohol on campus through campus-wide bans may decrease the frequency of alcohol use and heavy drinking, but may not reduce binge drinking (Wechsler 2001a). Targeted residence hall bans that also prohibit cigarette use appear to decrease alcohol use whereas bans that prohibit alcohol alone may not (Wechsler 2001b). Additional evidence is needed to confirm effects (NIAAA-College drinking 2002).
According to a 2004 study, approximately a third (34%) of public and private four-year universities implement campus-wide alcohol bans; a majority (81%) of universities offer alcohol-free residence halls or floors to students (Wechsler 2004). Mississippi State, Oklahoma State, and University of Missouri are examples of public universities with campus bans on alcohol.
Wisconsin Lutheran College has a campus alcohol ban which prohibits alcoholic beverages on campus, in residence halls, and at college-sponsored student events (WLC-Student policies).
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