Effects of Alcohol Management Programs for University Students in Korea: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis designed to investigate effects of alcohol management programs for Korean university students. METHODS: Research results published until October 14, 2016 were systematically collected in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis). A total of 12 papers were selected for the meta-analysis. To estimate the effect size, meta-analysis of the studies was performed with the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis 3.0. RESULTS: The mean effect size of 12 studies in total (Hedges' g=-0.36; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] -0.76~0.05) was not significant statistically. In a study of college students classified as problematic drinking (total of 9), the drinking program showed a median effect size of Hedges' g=-0.57(95% CI -0.96~-0.18). Results of the drinking-related outcome variables showed a significant effect size (Hedges' g=-0.61; 95% CI -1.10~-0.13), but psychosocial related outcome variables were not significant (Hedges' g=-0.50; 95% CI -1.24~0.23). CONCLUSION: It can be seen that the alcohol management program for college students has a significant effect on controlling the problem drinking of college students. In addition, application of a differentiated drinking program with problem drinkers selected as a risk group will be effective in controlling drinking and drinking related factors.