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A mobile-based pregaming drinking prevention intervention for college students: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Eric R Pedersen1, Justin F Hummer2, Jordan P Davis3
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California.
Summary
A mobile app intervention called PACE showed modest success in reducing college students' risky pregaming behaviors and alcohol-related consequences. Further research is needed for stronger, lasting effects.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
- Digital Health
Background:
- Pregaming is a high-risk drinking behavior among college students.
- Lack of tailored interventions for pregaming risks.
- Need for accessible and effective strategies to reduce alcohol-related harm.
Purpose of the Study:
- Develop and evaluate a brief, mobile-based intervention (PACE) for college student pregaming.
- Target heavy drinking and associated negative consequences.
- Utilize mobile technology and harm reduction for behavior change.
Main Methods:
- Randomized clinical trial with 485 college students who pregamed weekly.
- Intervention group received the PACE mobile app.
- Control group received a general alcohol information website.
- Assessed drinking and consequences at 6 and 14 weeks.
Main Results:
- Both groups reduced drinking; PACE showed small, significant effects at 6 weeks.
- Intervention favored PACE for overall drinking days and pregaming days.
- PACE also significantly reduced alcohol-related consequences at 6 weeks.
Conclusions:
- The brief mobile PACE intervention shows potential for addressing risky college drinking.
- More intensive, pregaming-specific interventions may be needed for lasting impact.
- Mobile health interventions can be a viable tool for college alcohol harm reduction.
