The Positive Drinking Consequences Questionnaire (PDCQ): validation of a new assessment tool

Abstract

Expected and experienced negative consequences and expected positive consequences of alcohol use have been widely studied, while little attention has been given to experienced positive drinking consequences. Although existing studies suggest that positive consequences may be important [Park, C.L. (2004). Positive and negative consequences of alcohol consumption in college students. Addictive Behaviors, 29, 311-321.; Park, C.L. & Grant, C. (2005). Determinants of positive and negative consequences of alcohol consumption in college students: Alcohol use, gender, and psychological characteristics. Addictive Behaviors, 30, 755-765.], it is not clear if they are distinct from expected positive outcomes or uniquely associated with drinking behavior. The primary goal of the current study was to develop a measure that directly assessed specific, real life drinking consequences rather than relying on general past tense derivations ("I forgot my worries") of expectancy items. Such a measure is necessary to determine whether or not positive consequences are distinct from positive expectancies and to assess the unique contribution of positive drinking consequences to drinking behavior. Participants were 423 undergraduate students who completed an online survey; 277 drinkers (56.5% women) completed all data necessary for analyses. Principal components analysis of the Positive Drinking Consequences Questionnaire (PDCQ) identified a single-factor structure with good internal and split-half reliability. The PDCQ also demonstrated discriminant validity relative to a positive expectancy measure and incremental validity in relation to drinking behavior. Although additional studies with heavier drinking populations are needed, the PDCQ may ultimately serve as a valuable research and clinical assessment tool.