The overall goal of this study is to gain an understanding of the influence of the workplace on patterns of alcohol use, and resulting problems, among young adults in the restaurant industry, a food service work force at high risk for alcohol-related problems. We seek to identify specific characteristics of occupational culture, in combination with personal background, that put young adults at risk for heavier and problematic drinking. We are collecting data from randomly selected young adults working in kitchen, waitstaff, bussing, and bartending roles in Applebee's chain restaurants found throughout the United States. Data collection includes: (1) 100 ethnographic interviews and on-site observations to assess research objectives in the context of work cultures, and (2) a survey conducted with 1,200 randomly selected employees to measure personal characteristics, drinking patterns, and related problems. Information from workers will be examined in light of such variables as the availability of alcohol to employees, workplace policies and stress.

 

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