Assessing God locus of control as a factor in college students' alcohol use and sexual behavior.

OBJECTIVES

This study explored God locus of control beliefs (i.e., God's control over behavior) regarding their influence on alcohol use and sexual behavior as an alternative religiosity measure to religious behaviors, which does not capture perceived influence of religiosity. Additionally, demographic differences in religious beliefs were explored.

METHODS

College students aged 18-24 (N = 324) completed a survey between April 2012 and March 2013. Principal components and multivariate analyses were conducted.

RESULTS

Findings suggest that measures provide reliable, valid data from college students. God locus of control is linked to not consuming alcohol or engaging in sex. There were differences regarding relationship status and religious denomination.

CONCLUSIONS

God locus of control beliefs are an appropriate construct for collecting data about college students' religiosity. Furthermore, health educators at faith-based institutions could incorporate this construct into their programming, encouraging abstinence but also behaving responsibly for those who do drink and are sexually experienced.