Alcohol problems in young adults transitioning from adolescence to adulthood: The association with race and gender

► The most common symptoms of pathological alcohol use in this community sample of Black and White young adult drinkers included drinking in hazardous situations, blackouts, and tolerance. ► Males compared to females had a higher prevalence of drinking in hazardous situations, engaging in violent behavior while drinking, and experiencing problems of excessive alcohol use. ► Blacks had a later age of onset than Whites for hazardous use, arguments and physical fights while drinking, and early morning drinking. ► Males showed greater alcohol problem severity compared to females, while alcohol problem severity did not differ between Blacks and Whites.