The impact of occupational culture on drinking behaviour of young adults in the U.S. Navy
From: Journal of Mixed Methods Research
Although heavy drinking is widely perceived to be a fundamental part of Navy life, little has been known about specific elements of the U.S. Navy workplace that may influence alcohol consumption. Previous surveys have identified that rates of heavy drinking are consistently higher for young adults in the military compared to civilians, and in fact higher among military populations of all ages. It is observed there are several important features of the Navy that contribute to problem drinking, perhaps most importantly the Navy culture has emphasized drinking as a mechanism for male bonding, recreation, and stress relief.
This mixed method study offers a comprehensive understanding of the contributory factors crucial to designing effective interventions. Findings may heighten awareness that elements of organizational culture can put young adults entering the workplace at risk for unhealthy drinking patterns.
