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Reactivity to ecological momentary assessment: an example using undergraduate problem drinkers
Michael R Hufford1, Alan L Shields, Saul Shiffman
1Department of Psychology, University of Montana, USA. mhufford@invivodata.com
Summary
Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) involves real-time monitoring. This study found that EMA has a minimal impact on the behaviors and motivations of undergraduate problem drinkers.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Health Technology
Background:
- Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) is defined as real-time monitoring in natural settings.
- EMA enhances ecological validity and avoids recall bias.
- Concerns exist regarding EMA's potential impact on observed behaviors and cognitions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate behavioral and motivational reactivity to EMA.
- To assess the effects of EMA on undergraduate problem drinkers.
Main Methods:
- A 2-week EMA monitoring protocol using palmtop computers.
- Pre- and post-monitoring assessments of drinking behavior and motivation for change.
- Study participants included male and female undergraduate problem drinkers (n=33).
Main Results:
- The magnitude of reactivity to EMA was found to be small.
- EMA did not significantly alter the observed behaviors or motivations.
Conclusions:
- EMA appears to be a minimally reactive method for studying problem drinking.
- Further research is suggested to explore EMA's long-term effects and applications.