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Moderating binge drinking: it is possible to change behaviour if you plan it in advance
V Murgraff1, D White, K Phillips
1Department of Psychology, University of East London, UK.
Alcohol and Alcoholism (Oxford, Oxfordshire)
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Planning to refuse drinks reduced drinking frequency in a study comparing interventions. This brief planning strategy showed promise for reducing alcohol-related harm.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Public Health
- Psychology
Background:
- Behavioral change theories emphasize the role of planning in executing responses.
- Binge drinking poses significant alcohol-related harm risks.
- Existing health promotion often relies on information dissemination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and evaluate a brief planning intervention for reducing alcohol consumption.
- To compare the effectiveness of a planning intervention against an information-based program.
Main Methods:
- Participants received information on safe drinking limits and binge drinking consequences.
- The planning group selected a refusal strategy and specified implementation time/place.
- A 2-week follow-up assessed drinking frequency and likelihood of future binge drinking.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were found between groups in likelihood of future binge drinking, past drinking, age, or gender.
- The planning intervention group reported significantly lower drinking frequency at follow-up compared to the control group.
- The planning intervention proved effective in reducing drinking frequency.
Conclusions:
- Brief planning interventions can be effective in reducing alcohol consumption.
- Planning strategies offer a promising approach for interventions aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm.
- Future research should explore the long-term efficacy and broader applications of planning interventions.