Relationship between subjective expected utility and behavior: a longitudinal study of adolescent drinking behavior.

The relationship between subjective expected utility (SEU) and the use of beer and distilled spirits by adolescents is examined. A panel design with 1339 subjects who began the study as seventh graders indicated that there were reciprocal relationships between SEU and behavior. It is concluded that SEU should be considered when attempts are made to explain adolescent drinking behavior.