Text Message-Based Intervention Targeting Alcohol Consumption Among University Students: Findings From a Formative...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Digital Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Alcohol consumption is a global concern among university students, with heavy episodic drinking often normalized.
• Short Message Service (SMS) text messaging interventions show promise for behavior change in students.
• Optimizing SMS intervention design for student engagement and adherence is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an SMS text message-based intervention for reducing alcohol consumption in university students.
• Utilize formative research to guide intervention design and content.

Main Methods:

• Employed a formative research design with iterative revisions based on student and expert feedback.
• Conducted seven focus groups and a panel evaluation with university students and experts in Sweden.
• Analyzed qualitative and quantitative data, incorporating Behavior Change Technique (BCT) analysis.

Main Results:

• Students reacted positively to the SMS intervention, preferring short, clear, and tangible messages.
• Messages scored highly on understanding, usability, and tone.
• A 6-week duration was deemed appropriate, but consensus on message frequency and timing was limited.

Conclusions:

• Formative research significantly improved the SMS intervention, with all original messages revised.
• Students are receptive to SMS-based support for behavior change.
• Neutral, motivated, clear, and tangible messages enhance engagement, but further research on optimal delivery parameters is needed.