A test of the work stressor-vulnerability model of alcohol consumption

Document Type

Article

Source of Publication

Journal of Workplace Behavioral Health

Publication Date

3-7-2026

Abstract

The Stressor-Vulnerability Model of Alcohol Consumption, which suggests that individuals who possess predisposing vulnerabilities are more likely to consume alcohol in response to stress, has not yet been explicitly adapted to work environments. Using a daily diary method, we examined individual and social vulnerabilities as moderators of the relationship between work stress and alcohol consumption. Food service employees completed an initial survey measuring trait attitudes and beliefs regarding alcohol and a daily survey administered for 21 days measuring work stressors and alcohol consumption. Based on a sample of 53 individuals with 955 observations, multilevel path models revealed a positive, but insignificant direct relationship between work stressors and daily alcohol consumption (b =.070, SE =.048, p =.144). In line with a stressor-vulnerability framework, the tension reduction alcohol outcome expectancy moderated the stressor-consumption relationship (b =.109, SE =.052, p =.037). Those who endorsed that drinking would ease physical and emotional tension consumed more alcohol on high stress days. These results highlight the potential utility of the Stressor-Vulnerability Model, particularly a tension reduction expectancy, as a theoretical lens to understand alcohol consumption in response to work stress and to improve workplace screening, psychoeducation, and assistance programs.

ISSN

1555-5240

Publisher

Informa UK Limited

Disciplines

Business

Keywords

alcohol consumption, stressor-vulnerability model, Work stress

Scopus ID

105032115622

Indexed in Scopus

yes

Open Access

no

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