Self-selection and alcohol consumption

Problem drinking among college-age populations is a well-recognized public health concern. Furthermore, the hospitality student sub-population is at greater risk than the college-age population at large. Self-selection provides an explanation for the increased risk among the hospitality sub-population. Students may choose to study and work in hospitality if they believe they have suitable personal characteristics and skills or if they value outcomes available in hospitality occupations. This study provides support for self-selection on the basis of personality and personality types. Personality types posited to enjoy and be attracted to the nature of hospitality work, personality types that are likely to the seek pleasurable experiences and thrills through alcohol consumption, as well as those personality types that are neurotic and seek to self-medicate with alcohol were over-represented among the hospitality sample.