Examining Peer Influences in Alcohol and Sexual Violence Among Marines Using a Dyadic Multimethod Approach
Georgia State University
Summary
The goal of this experimental study is to examine the complex and multifaceted influence of peers on alcohol-involved sexual violence perpetration (ASVP) in U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) men. The specific aims are: Aim 1: Use ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to examine event-level effects of one's own alcohol use, peer alcohol use, and injunctive norms on ASVP intentions among dyads of Marine men who drink together (n=160 dyads; 320 total participants). Aim 2: Examine the individual and peer effects on ASVP behavior in an experimental paradigm with a gender x confederate (potential victim) intoxication status design. In-the-moment dyad-peer verbalized encouragement for ASVP ("go cues") will be assessed by qualitatively coding verbalizations during the interaction. Aim 3: Examine modifiable risk factors on ASVP intentions in vivo (Aim 1; EMA) and ASVP behavior in vitro (Aim 2; experiment) settings. Participants will complete: 1) an individual orientation session with informed consent, baseline assessment, and EMA demo; 2) 14 days of EMA completed individually; and 3) a dyadic session to complete an experimental paradigm via videoconferencing. All study procedures will be completed in off-duty time as to not interfere with military duties.
Description
The overarching goal of this R01 is to obtain an event-level understanding of the role of alcohol and peer interpersonal behavior in sexual violence perpetration among Marine men. Rates of heavy episodic drinking and military sexual assault are high in the military, and highest among Marines. Alcohol is involved in 21-80% of sexual violence incidents among servicewomen and 14-56% of incidents among servicemen. Perceived peer norms and interpersonal interactions are key predictors of alcohol use and alcohol-involved sexual violence perpetration (ASVP) among civilians; however, it is unclear if…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 21+ years
- Sex
- Male
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Men * Aged 21 or older * Currently serving in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) * Marine dyads must have engaged in heavy episodic drinking (≥5 drinks in less than two hours) together at least twice in the past month * Marine dyads must rate their peer at a minimum of "somewhat important" on the Important People Interview. Exclusion Criteria: * The only exclusion criteria is not meeting inclusion criteria.
Location
- Georgia State UniversityAtlanta, Georgia