Does Gender Moderate the Association of Peer Pressure on Alcohol Use during Emerging Adulthood of Students? A Multi-Group Analysis

Abstract

Peer pressure and alcohol use in tertiary institutions remains a challenge amongst emerging adults. The study examined the moderating influence of  gender on the association between dimensional peer pressure and alcohol consumption. The study employed a non-probability convenient sampling  technique. The sample consisted of 414 participants who were students recruited from six faculties. Data collection used the Peer Pressure Inventory  (PPI) and Alcohol Use Dependence Identification Test (AUDIT) on an online platform. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social  Sciences Version 25 (SPSS-25), and structural equation modelling tested assumptions. There was no gender difference in terms of the relationship  between peer conformity and misconduct on alcohol use. Results indicated an increased family involvement, which predicted lower alcohol consumption  among females but not in males. School and peer involvements were not related to alcohol use in both genders. Family involvement against peer  influence on the use of alcohol may be a protective factor in females, but not in males. Males were more likely to conform to peer pressure than females.