Factors Influencing Problematic Drinking in Korean Adults based on the Theory of Planned behavior

Objective : The aim of this study was to examine factors influencing problematic drinking in Korean adults based on the Theory of Planned behavior. Methods : This study used data from a cross sectional survey conducted by the Korea Health Promotion Institute in December 2022. Data from 3,000 adults aged 20 to 70 were subjected for analysis. The dependent variable was the alcohol drinking risk level measured using Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test(AUDIT). Independent variables were as followings; sociodemographic characteristics(age, gender, education, income), attitude, norm(descriptive, normative), perceived behavioral control, intention to alcohol drinking. Results : Factors influencing problematic drinking(AUDIT score ≥ 8) were lower age, being male, a higher level of negative attitude toward alcohol drinking, a higher level of alcohol drinking norms, a lower level of perceived behavioral control, and having an intention to reducing or quitting drinking. Conclusion : Interventions for to reducing or quitting alcohol drinking among adults should include strategies to change the norms of alcohol drinking and enhance alcohol control behaviors.