Dismantling Motivational Interviewing and Feedback for College Drinkers

University Of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston, Houston TX

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

[unreadable] DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Excessive alcohol consumption has been a growing problem at many US colleges. In response, colleges and universities have instituted a range of alcohol intervention and prevention programs for students. Motivational interviewing (Ml) is one brief intervention that has been shown to reduce heavy drinking among college students. To date, all college studies of Ml have used a format that includes an assessment and feedback delivered in an Ml style. Although this format has considerable empirical support, it remains unclear which of the components is necessary to produce behavior change. This study will evaluate the separate and collective effects of Ml and feedback among "binge" drinking college students. Additionally, this study will evaluate the effects of the initial drinking assessment, through including a delayed-assessment control group. After an initial screen, 350 students at the University of Texas at Dallas who report at least one heavy (i.e., "binge") episode during the previous two weeks will be randomized to: (1) Ml with feedback, [unreadable] (2) Ml without feedback, (3) Mailed feedback only, (4) Assessment only, or (5) Delayed assessment only. Ml sessions will be delivered by trained and supervised "peer" counselors. Participants will be assessed via a secure internet site at baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months (12 months only for the Delayed-assessment group), with primary outcome measures including self-reported quantity and frequency of drinking, and drinking related problems. [unreadable] [unreadable]