Exploring the influence of user‐generated content on alcohol‐related attitudes and behaviours among young people: A systematic review
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Alcohol-related content on social media, particularly user-generated content (UGC), is an increasingly normal feature of young people's digital lives and has been linked to increased alcohol use; however, a critical gap remains in understanding how different subgroups of young people are exposed to and engage with such content, and how this may be associated with their alcohol-related attitudes and behaviours. This systematic review aimed to synthesise evidence on the association between alcohol-related UGC and young people's alcohol-related attitudes and behaviours, and to describe patterns of exposure and engagement within subgroups of adolescents and young adults. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in September 2023 and again in February 2026 across MEDLINE, PsycINFO, SocINDEX, EMBASE and CINAHL. Eligible peer-reviewed quantitative (cross-sectional and longitudinal), qualitative and mixed-methods studies described alcohol-related UGC (including influencer content); explored social media use; examined associations with alcohol-related attitudes, behaviours or harms; and focused on adolescents or young adults. A narrative synthesis was undertaken. This review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, and quality assessment was conducted. RESULTS: Forty-six studies met the inclusion criteria (24 cross-sectional, 14 longitudinal, seven qualitative, one mixed methods), with quantitative studies including 44 219 participants. Overall study…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 44 participants or records.
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