Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026
A Prediction Error-driven Retrieval Procedure for Destabilizing and Rewriting Maladaptive Reward Memories in Hazardous Drinkers
Published on: January 5, 2018
The Drinker's Check-up: 12-month outcomes of a controlled clinical trial of a stand-alone software program for
Reid K Hester1, Daniel D Squires, Harold D Delaney
1Research Division, Behavior Therapy Associates, LLP, Albuquerque, NM 87112, USA. reidhester@behaviortherapy.com
Abstract:
Sixty-one problem drinkers were randomly assigned to either immediate treatment or a 4-week wait-list control group. Treatment consisted of a computer-based brief motivational intervention, the Drinker's Check-up (DCU). Outcomes strongly support the experimental hypotheses and long-term effectiveness of the treatment. Overall, participants reduced the quantity and frequency of drinking by 50%, and had similar reductions in alcohol-related problems that were sustained through 12-month follow-up. The DCU seems to be effective in enhancing problem drinkers' motivation for change.
