BONDS Study: Bourbon-Oriented Networks, Drinking, and Social Connection Study

Sign up your bourbon society

Project Goals

The BONDS Study (Bourbon-Oriented Networks, Drinking, and Social Connection Study) is a research project led by Dr. Tyler Prochnow at Texas A&M University School of Public Health, in partnership with Dr. Ben Montemayor and Dr. Shawn Chang. This study examines how bourbon and whiskey enthusiast societies shape social connection, friendship, and drinking behaviors among their members. We are looking to partner with structured bourbon societies across the country to better understand these communities from the inside.

Why is this study important?

Loneliness among men is a growing public health concern, and many men find meaningful connection through interest-based communities such as bourbon and whiskey societies. At the same time, these groups often center around drinking, which can carry its own risks. Very little research has looked at both sides of this picture together: the real social support these communities provide, and the ways they may also shape drinking norms and behaviors. Findings from this study will help us understand how to support the connection these groups offer while reducing potential health risks.

Is our society eligible?

We are looking to partner with a small number of structured bourbon or whiskey societies that:

• Have a defined, identifiable membership list (not an open or casual meetup)
• Hold regular, scheduled meetings
• Have at least 20 members (we will need at least 70% of registered members to respond to a survey)

What does the study involve for participating societies?

Participating societies will take part in a network survey component of the study. Participation involves:

• A brief announcement or introduction at a regular society meeting so members can learn about the study
• Members completing a single online survey, taking about 20 minutes, covering friendships within the society, social support, drinking habits, and perceptions of the group
• No changes to how the society runs its regular meetings or events
• All individual responses kept confidential; only group-level findings are shared back with the society
• Members will be compensated $25 for their participation

How can our bourbon society sign up to participate?

If your society meets the eligibility criteria above and is interested in learning more, fill out our short interest form and a member of our research team will follow up with details and next steps: Sign up your bourbon society

You can also reach out directly to the Principal Investigator, Dr. Tyler Prochnow, at tprochnow@tamu.edu with any questions.

Funding

This project was supported by a Texas A&M University School of Public Health seed grant, generating preliminary data for a future NIH R01 submission to NIAAA.