Social Cognitive Predictors Of Alcohol Related Disease Perception Among Students At A Faith Based University

Alcohol related diseases (ARDs) remain a significant public health concern among young adults, particularly university students who are navigating developmental transitions, social pressures, and identity formation. Faith based universities present a unique context in which religious values, institutional norms, and psychosocial factors interact to shape alcohol related perceptions and behaviors. Guided by Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), this study examined predictors of ARD perception among students at a faith based university. A cross sectional survey of 391 students assessed SCT constructs and ARD perception. Logistic regression revealed that knowledge (OR = 3.12, 95% CI 1.87-5.21), self efficacy (OR = 2.67, 95% CI 1.34-5.31), outcome expectations (OR = 2.41, 95% CI 1.34-4.32), and goal setting (OR = 2.05, 95% CI 1.22-3.45) significantly predicted ARD perception. Observational learning showed a modest, non significant association (OR = 1.58, p = .08). Peer pressure and social gatherings also emerged as influential socio structural factors. Findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive, faith integrated prevention strategies that strengthen health literacy, refusal skills, and goal formation. SCT aligned interventions may enhance how young adults make alcohol related decisions in faith based settings.

Alcohol consumption, Psychosocial Behavior, Health Knowledge, Disease Perceptions

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