New research from the Department of Psychology, led by Dylan Richards, finds that people who feel autonomy, competence, and connection are more likely to drink responsibly. Across studies of college students and adults, those with these needs met reported safer drinking behaviors, while those lacking them were more likely to experience risky outcomes such as blackouts and impulsive actions. The study also suggests that unmet psychological needs may contribute to more severe alcohol use over time, particularly among older adults. 

The full article, including additional details on the studies and findings, is available on UGA Today and Futurity.

Co-authors include Joshua Grubbs, Christian Garcia, Matthew Pearson, and Craig Field.