Psychological Video for Reducing Alcohol Consumption
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether a short, 7-minute video can help young Canadian adults reduce alcohol consumption. The video incorporates ideas from a theory that examines how people perceive threats and their coping mechanisms, known as the PMT Intervention (a psychological method). Participants will watch either this specific video or a general one about coffee, then complete surveys on their thoughts and drinking habits. The goal is to determine if the video influences their intentions and actual drinking over four weeks. It suits individuals aged 19-25 who currently drink alcohol and have access to a smartphone or computer with internet. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could help reduce alcohol consumption among young adults.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It mainly focuses on alcohol consumption and does not mention other medications.
What prior data suggests that this PMT Intervention is safe?
Research has shown that the PMT (Protection Motivation Theory) intervention, similar to the one tested in this trial, is generally easy for participants to handle. Previous studies on similar digital programs aimed at reducing alcohol use have found them safe. These programs typically involve simple activities, such as watching videos or interacting with digital content, which do not pose physical risks.
Negative effects are rare for digital and video-based programs. Participants in similar studies often report engaging with the content comfortably. These programs focus on motivation and behavior change through information, usually involving minimal risk. Therefore, the PMT video is expected to be as safe as watching any other educational video online.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the PMT (Protection Motivation Theory) intervention because it offers a novel approach to reducing alcohol consumption through psychological methods instead of traditional medication or counseling. Unlike most treatments that involve therapy sessions or pharmaceuticals, this intervention uses a video-based method to leverage psychological principles, potentially making it more accessible and easier to scale. By focusing on altering motivation and attitudes towards drinking, the PMT video could offer a fresh and engaging way to help individuals reduce alcohol intake, particularly appealing to those who prefer digital and self-guided resources.
What evidence suggests that this PMT Intervention is effective for reducing alcohol consumption?
Studies have shown that Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) can help reduce alcohol consumption. PMT helps individuals understand the harmful effects of alcohol and increases their confidence to make changes. Research using digital tools has demonstrated that this approach can reduce alcohol use among young adults, motivating real behavior changes. Specifically, one study found that participants who engaged with PMT-based digital content drank less over time. In this trial, participants in the PMT Information arm will watch a PMT-based video, which could help young adults lower their drinking intentions and habits. Meanwhile, participants in the Non-contact Control arm will watch a non-specific video about coffee.14678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Harry Parapavessis
Principal Investigator
Western University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for young Canadian adults who are interested in reducing their alcohol consumption. Participants should be willing to watch an informational video and complete questionnaires. There's no mention of specific health conditions required or excluded, so it appears open to healthy individuals as well as those with certain conditions like colorectal cancer.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants complete baseline surveys assessing drinking patterns, intentions, and PMT constructs
Intervention
Participants watch a 7-minute PMT video or a control video and complete post-video surveys
Follow-up
Participants complete follow-up surveys assessing PMT constructs, intentions, and drinking behavior
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- PMT Intervention
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Western University, Canada
Lead Sponsor