Study on Peer Pressure, Adverse Childhood Experiences and Alcohol Usage Among Young Adults

Objective – Peer pressure and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been recognised as major risk factors for alcohol abuse in young adults. Particularly among young adults who have suffered adverse childhood experiences including childhood trauma, abuse, neglect, or familial dysfunction, the pressure to adhere to social norms and the desire to fit in with peers can result in higher alcohol consumption. Despite the harmful effects of alcohol abuse, young adults continue to use alcohol at high rates This study aims to investigate the association between peer pressure, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and alcohol dependency in young adults (N = 100, aged 18-25).  Method – A pilot study with an N=10 sample size was carried out prior to the collection of the final data in order to understand the procedure, its efficacy, and some potential downsides that might arise. In order to test the hypotheses, the current investigation required an empirical research strategy. After the pilot study was completed and the necessary adjustments were made, only then did the final data collection began. They received a thorough explanation of the study’s purpose, goals, and guidelines. The study’s ethical standards and the participants’ right to confidentiality were both assured to them. The participants’ informed consent was obtained, and they completed the questionnaire. Results – The subjects had a moderate amount of peer pressure (M = 64.13, SD = 8.858) and a relatively low prevalence of ACEs (M = 2.56, SD = 1.526). The mean alcohol dependence score was moderate (M = 9.06, SD = 6.583). A substantial positive link was found between peer pressure and alcohol dependency (r = 0.365, p 0.01), as well as between ACEs and alcohol dependence (r = 0.768, p 0.01). Conclusion – These findings support the idea that peer pressure and ACEs are associated with increased alcohol consumption in young people. Individuals who faced more peer pressure and had more ACEs were more likely to develop alcohol dependency. Understanding the impact of peer pressure and ACEs on alcohol dependence has significant implications for prevention and therapeutic programmes aimed at young adults. Interventions that target these risk variables can encourage healthy decision-making and minimise alcohol dependence in this population.