Randomized Trial Shows Smartphone Support App for DWI Offenders and Their Families Reduced Alcohol Use and Ignition...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• Technology in Healthcare

Background:

• Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a significant public health issue in the US.
• Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are effective in preventing DWI during mandated periods but do not reduce recidivism after removal.
• Smartphone technology offers a potential avenue for continued support and intervention for DWI offenders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test the efficacy of the B-SMART smartphone application for DWI offenders with IIDs and their Concerned Family Members (CFMs).
• To reduce IID lockout events and alcohol consumption among DWI offenders.
• To explore the impact of a digital intervention on DWI recidivism predictors.

Main Methods:

• Development of four B-SMART app modules: Life with Interlock, Supporting Changes in Drinking, Doing Things Together, and Effective Communication.
• Randomized controlled trial comparing the B-SMART app (n=58) to a Usual and Customary (UC) condition (n=65) for 9 months.
• Primary outcome: IID data (failed tests, lockout events). Secondary outcome: self-reported alcohol consumption.

Main Results:

• IID data were obtained for 62% of participants.
• B-SMART participants experienced significantly fewer IID lockout events compared to the UC group.
• B-SMART offenders and CFMs reported a significantly lower likelihood of offender drinking at 9 months.

Conclusions:

• The B-SMART app demonstrated effectiveness in reducing IID lockout events.
• The app also showed success in decreasing alcohol consumption among DWI offenders.
• Reduced IID lockout events are a promising indicator for lower DWI recidivism rates.