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Impact of normative feedback on problem drinkers: a small-area population study
J A Cunningham1, T C Wild, S J Bondy
1Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. John_Cunningham@camh.net
Journal of Studies on Alcohol
|May 1, 2001
Summary
A low-cost intervention using normative feedback significantly reduced alcohol consumption in problem drinkers. This public health approach targets individuals who may not seek traditional treatment services.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
- Addiction Research
Background:
- Alcohol consumption affects a significant portion of North American adults, leading to substantial economic costs and health risks.
- Many individuals with problematic drinking patterns do not seek formal treatment.
- Minimal interventions are needed to address widespread alcohol-related issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a minimal intervention utilizing normative feedback on alcohol consumption.
- To assess if providing population drinking data can motivate changes in alcohol use among problem drinkers.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving over 6,000 households in Toronto.
- Intervention group received a pamphlet with normative feedback on alcohol use.
- A general population survey was conducted post-mailing to assess alcohol consumption.
Main Results:
- Households receiving normative feedback showed significantly lower alcohol use compared to controls.
- This effect was specifically observed in respondents identified as problem drinkers.
- Perceived risk associated with drinking moderated the intervention's impact.
Conclusions:
- Normative feedback interventions offer a cost-effective public health strategy.
- This approach can effectively reach problem drinkers who typically do not access treatment.
- Minimal interventions hold potential for significant impact on population-level alcohol use.