TITLE:
Sociodemographic Correlates of Drinking Behaviors among University Students in Hong Kong: A Cross-Sectional Study
AUTHORS:
Yue Tang, Wenxuan Lyu, Pinyan Li
KEYWORDS:
Alcohol, University Students, Gender, Hong Kong
JOURNAL NAME:
Sociology Mind,
Vol.16 No.4,
September
28,
2026
ABSTRACT: Background: University students’ alcohol use is a social concern in Hong Kong. While the association between sociodemographic factors and university students’ drinking behaviors has been widely studied, such research remains limited in the Hong Kong context. Methods: This study collected 147 valid responses from students at a public university in Hong Kong using self-administered questionnaires. Bivariate analyses and multivariable logistic and linear regression models were used to examine the correlates of four drinking-related outcomes, which were drinking status, binge drinking behavior, number of standard drinks, and AUDIT score. Results: Alcohol use is relatively common (81.6%). 44.2% of students engaged in binge drinking with different frequencies. Male gender and being international students were the most consistent correlates. While male gender showed increased risk, being international students demonstrated a protective effect. In addition, age and study year were significant correlates of the number of standard drinks, while on-campus residence was significantly associated with a higher likelihood of past-year drinking. Conclusion: Although alcohol misuse generally is not a serious problem at this public university in Hong Kong, a subgroup of students shows signs of problematic drinking. These findings suggest that alcohol prevention programs may be more effective if they are targeted at male students and those living on-campus rather than taking a uniform approach.