Department of Educational Administration

 

Exploring the Effectiveness of Late-Night Programs to Curb Underage Alcohol Consumption

Kathryn E. Reising, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Document Type Article

A THESIS Presented to the Faculty of The Graduate College at the University of Nebraska In Partial Fulfillment of Requirements For the Degree of Master of Arts, Major: Educational Administration, Under the Supervision of Dr. James Griesen. Lincoln, Nebraska: May, 2012

Copyright (c) 2012 Kathryn Reising

Abstract

This research study explored the effectiveness of late-night programming as a tool to deter underage alcohol consumption of students. At the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Campus NightLife provided these late-night activities for students as an alternative to drinking. A survey was completed by student attendees of two Campus NightLife events in the Fall 2011 semester to gauge if students attending late-night programming sponsored by Campus NightLife (CNL) at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln were satisfied with the types of programs being put on by CNL and were choosing to attend these events as an alternative to engaging in activities that include the use of alcohol.

Additionally, this research aimed to provide insight regarding the demographic makeup of students who attend CNL events. This study supported the premise that Campus NightLife programs are not making a substantial difference in deterring students from engaging in activities that include the use of alcohol; however, this study illustrated that Campus NightLife programs provide entertaining options to students who would not otherwise have ways to become involved on campus. By providing these programs, Campus NightLife provides the opportunity for students to become more engaged on campus, therefore increasing student retention. The Campus NightLife Advisor, Graduate Assistant, and Student Advisory Board members utilized the information acquired through this study to further provide exciting, entertaining, imaginative, and safe activities for University of Nebraska – Lincoln students.

Advisor: Dr. James Griesen