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Social Influence and Selection Processes as Predictors of Normative Perceptions and Alcohol Use Across the Transition to College
- Journal of College Student Development
- Johns Hopkins University Press
- Volume 51, Number 5, September/October 2010
- pp. 496-508
- 10.1353/csd.2010.0005
- Article
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Research indicates that social influences impact college students' alcohol consumption; however, how selection processes may serve as an influential factor predicting alcohol use in this population has not been widely addressed. A model of influence and selection processes contributing to alcohol use across the transition to college was examined using structural equation modeling among a sample of late adolescents (N = 193). Results indicate selection processes occur as students transition into college with the opportunity to seek out and join new friend circles, while peer influence occurs once students have settled within a circle of friends at college. Implications for prevention of alcohol abuse are discussed.