Alcohol Intoxication Effects on Bystander Intervention
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how alcohol influences people's willingness and ability to intervene in situations involving potential sexual violence. It examines how intoxication, along with factors like gender and attitudes toward helping others, can alter this response. Participants will receive either alcoholic drinks (to study the effects of alcohol intoxication on the ascending and descending limbs) or non-alcoholic drinks to compare reactions. Those who consume alcohol at least three times a year at levels similar to those used in the study might be suitable candidates. As an unphased study, this trial provides a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding social behaviors and alcohol's impact.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you are on medications that make alcohol consumption unsafe.
What prior data suggests that this protocol is safe?
Research shows that alcohol consumption can impair bystander effectiveness. Some studies found that people who drank alcohol struggled to notice dangerous situations. For instance, those with alcohol in their system were less likely to perceive a situation as risky or requiring intervention. This suggests alcohol may hinder judgment and reaction in such scenarios.
Alcohol's effects on safety have been well-researched. In these studies, a breath alcohol concentration of 0.08% is generally considered safe for healthy adults. However, effects can vary among individuals, with some experiencing mild side effects like dizziness or nausea. Consulting a healthcare professional before participating in a study involving alcohol is always advisable.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores how alcohol intoxication affects bystander intervention, a topic with significant social implications. Unlike traditional studies that focus on the physiological effects of alcohol, this trial examines the behavioral aspect — specifically, how different levels of intoxication influence a person's likelihood to step in during an emergency. By comparing the ascending and descending phases of alcohol intoxication against a no-alcohol control, researchers aim to gain insights into the nuanced ways alcohol impacts decision-making and social behavior. This could lead to better public health strategies and interventions that address alcohol-related incidents, making social environments safer for everyone.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective?
This trial will compare the effects of alcohol intoxication with a no-alcohol control on bystander intervention in dangerous situations. Research has shown that alcohol consumption can hinder people's ability to assist in situations like potential sexual violence. Studies have found that alcohol reduces the likelihood of noticing danger and the willingness to help. This effect applies to both men and women and may be more pronounced in those typically more willing to help when sober. The impact remains consistent regardless of the level of intoxication. Overall, alcohol appears to impair judgment and actions in these serious situations.14678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Ruschelle M Leone, PhD
Principal Investigator
Georgia State University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This study is for men and women aged 21-30 who drink socially but aren't seeking treatment for alcohol or substance use disorders. They shouldn't have health conditions that make drinking unsafe, be pregnant or nursing, or at risk of pregnancy without effective contraception. Participants also need to meet specific height and weight criteria.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants are randomly assigned to either an alcohol or control beverage condition and complete the study on either the ascending or descending alcohol limb.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for any immediate effects post-drinking and their responses to scenarios are assessed.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Alcohol Intoxication- Ascending Limb
- Alcohol Intoxication- Descending Limb
- No Alcohol Control
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Georgia State University
Lead Sponsor