Evaluating a fear appeal message to reduce alcohol use among "Greeks".

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of a fear appeal message on college students' drinking behavior using the extended parallel process model. METHOD A survey was administered to a random sample of undergraduates (n=224) in 38 national fraternal organizations. RESULTS Both perceived efficacy and perceived threat were significantly correlated with drinking behavior. There was a significant difference both in drinking behavior and attendance at alcohol-free events between those who heard and those who did not hear the message. CONCLUSIONS Theoretically based fear appeal messages may be a useful way to promote responsible drinking among college students.

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