Alcohol-Use Interventions for College Students and Their Parents
Author Information
Author(s): AC Fernandez, MD Wood, R Laforge, JT Black
Primary Institution: University of Rhode Island
Hypothesis
The study hypothesized that the interventions would reduce the initiation and growth of heavy episodic drinking (HED) and related consequences among incoming college students.
Conclusion
The study found that the brief motivational intervention significantly reduced the onset of HED and alcohol-related consequences, but the parent-based intervention did not have a significant effect.
Supporting Evidence
- The brief motivational intervention significantly reduced the onset of HED and alcohol-related consequences at 10 and 22 months.
- Retention rates were high, with 90.8% of students retained at the 10-month follow-up.
- Participants reported high satisfaction with the interventions.
Takeaway
This study looked at ways to help college students drink less alcohol by involving their parents, and it found that one method worked better than the other.
Methodology
The study used a 2×2 factorial design to compare a brief motivational intervention and a parent-based intervention, with follow-ups at 10 and 22 months.
Potential Biases
Potential for assessment reactivity to mask intervention effects.
Limitations
The study design did not allow for full interpretation of null findings, and there were concerns about assessment timing and reactivity.
Participant Demographics
The student sample was 57% female with a mean age of 18.4 years, and the parent sample was 59% female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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