DECLINE IN ALCOHOL-USE AMONG 7TH-12TH GRADE STUDENTS IN NEW-YORK-STATE, 1983-1990

The prevalence and patterns of alcohol use and alcohol-related problem s were determined in two large representative samples of 7-12th grade students in New York State in 1983 and 1990. Comparable sampling proce dures and measures were used in both surveys. Logistic regression anal yses showed that overall drinking, heavy drinking, and alcohol-related problems decreased significantly for the population as a whole; furth ermore, all subgroups according to age, gender, and racial/ethnic stat us showed significant declines in alcohol use and related problems ove r this time period. The social context of this change is discussed.