College has historically been a place for exploration, and likely some poor decisions along the way. I commonly hear jokes such as "there's no such thing as an alcoholic in college." However, there is a growing attitude toward alcohol that is putting many students in severe danger.
The "blackout" trend is growing, and it is dangerous.
Many students attend frat parties or other alcohol-centered events during the weekend with the goal of blacking out. This can mean anything from not remembering some of your actions the next morning, to fully passing out with no recollection. Considering the prevalence of sexual assault and rape on college campuses, is this really a good behavior to become accustomed to? Binge drinking is defined as having five drinks for men, or four drinks for women, in a two hour period.
It is not uncommon for someone to put away that many drinks in 30 minutes at a party.
Aside from binge drinking itself, there is also a notable dependence on alcohol for many young adults. Oftentimes, I hear people complain if they know there will not be alcohol at an event, or they will feel displeased with their weekend if drinking was not involved.
If any normal adult acted in this manner, wouldn't it be concerning?
This behavior is completely unsustainable in post-college life, and it sure doesn't encourage success as a student. Between the influences of peers, social media, television, and every other source young adults come in contact with, there is no real condemnation of this behavior. If anything, it's encouraged. As someone who has a family history of alcoholism, these behaviors seem like a stepping stone to an addiction that is extremely difficult to kick.
It's time for colleges to address these behaviors.
If they care about the success and well-being of the whole student, then they should pay attention to what happens during the weekend. Campus police are well aware of these parties and behaviors, but they often don't do anything about it until things get extremely out of hand. Binge drinking and alcoholism are putting both. young men and women at risk of lifelong consequences, and it needs to be addressed. Otherwise, I truly fear we may be breeding a generation of future alcohol-dependent individuals.
