Off-campus WSU users: To download campus access dissertations, please use the following link to log into our proxy server with your WSU access ID and password, then click the "Off-campus Download" button below.
Non-WSU users: Please talk to your librarian about requesting this thesis through interlibrary loan.
Access Type
WSU Access
Date of Award
January 2024
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.A.
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Emily R. Grekin
Abstract
Objective: Opinions about alcohol use differ across ethnicities, and in many Middle Eastern communities, alcohol use is stigmatized. Despite this, few studies have investigated how ethnicity influences alcohol-related stigma and perceptions of individuals who drink. Moreover, existing research on stigma and substance use has often relied on surveys, which can be affected by social desirability bias or limited insight. To address these issues, the current study used vignettes to examine the degree to which participant ethnicity and vignette character drinking level, gender, and ethnicity influenced ratings of vignette character conscientiousness, responsibility, and success.Method: Middle Eastern and non-Middle Eastern participants (N = 347) were randomly assigned to rate the perceived conscientiousness, responsibility, and success of 1 of 12 vignette characters who varied on ethnicity (Arab American vs. non-Arab American), gender (male vs. female), and drinking level (non, light, or heavy). A structural equation model was specified to examine main and interaction effects of these variables on participant ratings. Results: Vignette characters who drank heavily were perceived as significantly less conscientious, responsible, and successful than those who drank less or abstained, particularly by Middle Eastern participants. Additionally, male characters who drank heavily received lower ratings than female characters who drank heavily. Conclusions: Individuals who drink heavily may be perceived as low in conscientiousness, responsibility, and success, especially in Middle Eastern communities, where cultural and religious norms discourage use. Additionally, males who drink heavily may be perceived as less conscientious, responsible, and successful than females who drink heavily.
Recommended Citation
Souweidane, Mariam, "Effects Of Gender, Ethnicity, And Drinking Level On Judgments Of College Students’ Personal Effectiveness: A Vignette Study" (2024). Wayne State University Theses. 1000.
https://digitalcommons.wayne.edu/oa_theses/1000