The Role of Religion and Religiosity in Alcohol Consumption in Adolescents in Spain.

This study explored the relationship between religion, religiosity and alcohol consumption in a sample of 2.890 adolescents (ages 12-18) in Madrid, Spain. Results showed that non-believers were the group that consume and abuse alcohol the most, as opposed to Catholics. Besides, religiosity was related to a lower alcohol use. Therefore, religion and religiosity in Spanish adolescents appear to be related to a low alcohol use. This contribution may help to clarify the risk and protection factors for alcohol consumption by adolescents and contribute to strengthening the preventive actions.