Associations between Alcohol Consumption, Academic Self Regulation, and Social Connectedness

Authors: Megan Sharkey, Elena Baldo, Lina Begdache

Field of Study: Integrative Neuroscience

Program Affiliation: B-SMART

Faculty Mentors: Lina Begdache

Easel: 54

Timeslot: Afternoon

Abstract: Alcohol consumption is prevalent among college students and has been linked to academic and psychological consequences. Excessive drinking may negatively affect academic performance, engagement, and participation. Academic self-regulation behaviors are essential for success, while social connectedness contributes to student well-being. Limited research has examined how alcohol consumption relates to academic self-regulation and social connectedness. This study employed a cross-sectional, anonymous survey administered to college students (n=1,409). Alcohol consumption was negatively associated with focus during discussions ( p <.05), desire for academic achievement ( p <.05), class participation ( p <.05), and timely assignment completion (p<.05). Lack of social connectedness was negatively associated with alcohol use, including feeling distant from others ( p <.05), lack of relatedness ( p <.05), and loss of connectedness with society (p<.05), indicating greater social connectedness. Findings suggest alcohol use is associated with poor academic self-regulation and increased social connectedness.