Basic Coping Styles and Consumption of Alcohol

Abstract

In a sample of adults (n = 357, mean age 23.5 years), the present study investigates the differences in alcohol consumption between high and low scorers on the basic coping scales of the Millon Behavioral Health Inventory (MBHI) and on the Tellegen Absorption Scale (ABS). In terms of the total yearly consumption of alcohol (calculated into liters of ethanol), high scorers on the cooperative and the respectful scales drank significantly less alcohol than low scorers. High scorers on the forceful style and the sensitive styles, on the other hand, drank significantly more than low scorers. High scorers on the ABS consumed significantly more wine than low scorers. During the last 12 months, high scorers on the forceful style were significantly more intoxicated, while high scorers on the respectful scale were significantly less intoxicated.