Alcohol mixed energy drink usage and risk-taking among college students in Western New York State.

Alcohol mixed energy drinks (AmED) may promote excessive alcohol intake and risk-taking among college students. To understand the relationship between AmED use and risky behavior as well as attitudes and motivations for AmED use. Undergraduate college students N = 422 (Study 1), N = 37 (Study 2). Using a mixed-methods approach, we first surveyed undergraduate students about their AmED and alcohol consumption and a series of risk behaviors, self-efficacy, and beliefs (Study 1). We then conducted focus groups within the same population to better understand attitudes, knowledge, and motivations for using AmED (Study 2). Recent AmED use was significantly associated with an increased number of reported binge drinking occasions and self-reported driving while intoxicated events. Our qualitative data analyses revealed two major themes associated with AmED consumption: factors encouraging AmED use and decisions about driving while under the influence of alcohol. These findings add to the literature of beliefs and motivations for AmED use among college students.