Date

7-21-2026

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Nathan Borrett

Keywords

emerging adulthood, alcohol use, problem drinking, protective factors, COVID-19 pandemic

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

This research investigated the protective factors that shape alcohol use and problem drinking among emerging adults during the 2020s, with a spotlight on the COVID-19 pandemic. As this age group grapples with the complexities of self-discovery and independence, the pandemic introduced a new set of challenges and shifts. Through qualitative interviews, this study worked to uncover the resilience strategies and support systems that have emerged as crucial in mitigating alcohol misuse. It examined the role of social connections, mental health resources, coping mechanisms, and evolving social norms in buffering against problem drinking. While the pandemic intensified some risks, it also sparked adaptive responses and reinforced protective factors. This research not only enhances our understanding of how emerging adults navigate alcohol use in an era of crisis but also offers practical insights for crafting effective prevention and intervention strategies. This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with a phenomenological approach to explore resilience strategies mitigating problem drinking among emerging adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. A purposive sampling strategy recruited 15 participants aged 18-25 who have experienced shifts in drinking behavior due to the pandemic. Recruitment occurred via university networks, social media, and recovery forums. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using Thematic Analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006), identifying key themes on resilience and support systems. Member checking and intercoder reliability was utilized to ensure validity.

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