What’s all this fuss about drinking booze to have a buzz? : exploring the experience of binge drinking among university students

Abstract

Binge drinking is a relatively new trend, especially among young people. The aim of this study was to delve into the lived experience of University students who binge drink and to understand how they make sense of this experience. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used and six interviews were conducted with students recruited through snowballing. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed to extract the main themes. It emerged that students use alcohol as a coping means and because of peer pressure. They also consume alcohol to socialize and make new friends. Students who binge drink with peers felt connected because of the shared, common experiences they were undergoing together. Lastly, as commitments increased in life, the less frequent the binge drinking. This study brings out the importance of the role which society plays regarding alcohol where nowadays, alcohol has become part of our identity. A light is shed on issues related to prevention, education and coping which professionals need to work on. Furthermore, this study may be of utmost importance in order to tackle the problem of binge drinking and to change the mentality of our society regarding alcohol. It is also addressed to society, law and policy makers in a joint attempt to decrease alcohol consumption.