A field investigation of perceived behavioral control and blood alcohol content: A pattern-oriented approach

As the first field study of perceived behavioral control (PBC) to assess alcohol consumption with a physiological measure (i.e., blood alcohol content; BAC), the research examined the impact of intoxication on alcohol-specific PBC (APBC). In total, 665 passersby were recruited into the study at several late-night drinking locations near a large university campus. After answering questions regarding personal demographics and APBC, participants were administered a breath alcohol test (Lifeloc FC-20; ± .005 mL/L). The average BAC of drinking participants was .096 mL/L. A latent class analysis (LCA) was performed to classify participants based on APBC responses. Three classes emerged: high PBC, high controllability, and low controllability. Class membership varied as a function of gender and Greek-life membership. Blood alcohol content was a significant predictor of class membership. Results show a link between alcohol consumption and APBC that varies based on gender and Greek-life status. These findings are discussed with regard to their implications for a variety of prevention interventions.

► The average BAC of drinkers in a downtown, college bar setting was .096 mL/L. ► Three latent classes of drinking perceived behavioral control were observed. ► Classes differed as a function of Greek-life status and gender. ► BAC was a significant predictor of drinking perceived behavioral control class.