Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Statistics
The Core Alcohol and Drug Survey is a standardized survey implemented across colleges and universities all over the country. It was developed to help measure knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use rates among university students. The survey also examines students' perceptions of the use and abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs by their peers, solicits feedback concerning alcohol and other drug policies, and assesses the extent of students' awareness of alcohol and drug education efforts on campus.
Historically, survey data are collected biennially during the spring semester from students attending undergraduate courses (cluster sample) at the University of Florida. However, in the fall of 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2007, data was collected via a web survey. Students aged 18-24 were randomly selected by e-mail to participate in the anonymous survey. The response rate for the 2007 Core was 20%.
Please use caution when comparing cross sectional data. Although the questions have remained essentially the same over time, there are inherent limitations in comparing rates. Different survey methodologies, response rates, cohorts, and survey administration dates (Fall or Spring) can compromise reliability and validity of the survey's results.
