Using Ecological Momentary Data to Inform a Web-intervention for Romantic Partners Concerned About Their Loved Ones Drinking
Stanford University
Summary
Alcohol misuse is a prevalent and serious problem with significant harms to society, individuals, and their relationships. Romantic partners have a strong influence on their partner's behavior, uniquely positioning them as a motivator and supportive factor in changing their partner's alcohol use, but little evidence exists on the specific ways they can influence their partner. The impact this has on the quality of their relationship, communication, and overall well-being has yet to be explored. Thus, this study utilizes qualitative, quantitative, and ecological momentary assessment (EMA) data from both partners to develop a web-based intervention that applies communication-based personalized feedback to support the concerned partner (CP) in motivating their drinking partner (DP) to reduce drinking and other adverse relationship outcomes.
Description
Previous research by our team and others has shown that certain CP responses to their DP's drinking (e.g., using punishment such as expressing anger or sarcasm, or threatening to leave) lead to increased DP drinking and poorer relationship functioning. Effective CP communication may affect fluctuations in DP drinking, but its mechanism is poorly understood. Limitations of prior research include long intervals between data collection points and lack of real-time dyadic data.The proposed project will use EMA and dyadic data to identify specific CP behaviors that elicit and/or inhibit DP drinking…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Concerned Partners: Inclusion Criteria: * be at least 18 years of age * be in a romantic relationship * live with their partner * have a computer, tablet, or phone with internet access * have no plans to separate from partner in next 60 days * feel safe from partner violence Exclusion Criteria: * report 4/5+ on the AUDIT-C Drinking Partners: Inclusion Criteria: * be at least 18 years of age * report 4/5+ on the AUDIT-C * have a computer, tablet, or phone with internet access * feel safe from partner violence Exclusion Criteria: * in current treatment for alcohol * concern about their…
Interventions
- BehavioralWBI
The WBI will comprise of four sessions focusing on CRAFT principles including: (1) self-care, (2) positive communication including ways to increase responsiveness to the DP (PPR; i.e., actively listening, showing understanding, expressing interest in what their DP is thinking and feeling, and trying to see where the DPs is coming from), (3) understanding the DP's drinking reinforcers, and (4) supporting the DP if they want help and engaging in positive, healthy activities with the DP. ' partner. Each module will take \~20-30 minutes and each session will: (1) instill optimism in CPs, (2) be solution-focused, (3) emphasize that the CP is not responsible for the DP's behaviors, and (4) use a nonjudgmental, non-confrontational, empathetic style. The WBI intervention is focused on reduced drinking in the DP and improved CP wellness.
Location
- Portland State UniversityPortland, Oregon