H. Wesley Perkins, Ph.D., Dept. of Anthropology/Sociology
David W. Craig, Ph.D., Dept. of Chemistry
Hobart & William Smith Colleges
Athletes reveal higher rates of heavy drinking compared to other undergraduates. Nevertheless, athletes and the student body at large hold exaggerated perceptions of athlete drinking norms. This workshop will present strategies designed to identify and reduce these harmful misperceptions about student-athletes. Strategies includes: 1) a rapid and inexpensive protocol to anonymously survey an entire college sub-population using a web-based instrument, 2) print and electronic media communication strategies promoting positive norms about athletes regarding alcohol, community service, and academic involvement distributed to the entire campus, and 3) print, electronic and peer educator strategies designed to specifically target the student-athlete and athletic staff sub-populations.