Introduction - The objective of this study is to identify, based on a representative sample of the population, the factors that may underlie compulsive drinking behavior among drinkers in French Polynesia (FP), and to determine the necessary measures for implementing prevention and screening initiatives for at-risk individuals. Method - A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1,023 individuals aged 16 and older from January to February 2003 using an anonymous questionnaire administered in face-to-face interviews. The questionnaire was developed based on data from a qualitative exploratory phase conducted with 60 individuals (current or former drinkers) through semi-structured face-to-face interviews. It included the DETA test for assessing alcohol-related risk (consisting of four questions). Results - The study highlights a high prevalence of alcohol dependence in Pf (30% of the sample), as well as episodes of drunkenness (41% of the sample). Pleasure and parties are the main reasons for drinking cited by drinkers (83% and 75% of the sample, respectively). Nevertheless, the need to cope with distress (combating boredom, cheering oneself up, being able to face significant problems in family or professional life) also appears as a frequent reason for alcohol use, particularly among 16- to 19-year-olds. Conclusion - Perceptions of alcohol in Pf are such that the available levers for improving the situation regarding alcohol consumption are scarce. Regulating alcohol advertising across all media would certainly help correct certain misleading representations that encourage consumption. It also appears essential to establish a system for monitoring drinking practices among adolescents, relying in particular on the regular repetition of this type of survey. [author’s abstract]