Friend-Based Motivational Interview for Binge Drinking

(PAIRS Trial)

This trial aims to determine if a motivational interview with a friend can help reduce binge drinking. It involves supportive conversations with a friend to encourage healthier drinking habits. The trial compares this method with standard treatment to assess effectiveness. Women who have consumed four or more drinks in one sitting at least twice a month over the last three months and regularly socialize with a specific friend may qualify. Participants should not live with their parents and must understand English. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could lead to new strategies for promoting healthier drinking habits.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Studies have shown that motivational interviewing is a safe and generally well-tolerated method. Research indicates that using motivational interviewing to reduce alcohol use has not been linked to serious side effects. For example, one study found that this approach significantly decreased daily alcohol intake and reduced binge drinking without notable negative effects. Another study on college students showed that just one session of motivational interviewing increased awareness of their drinking habits without causing harm.

Researchers are excited about the Friend-Based Motivational Interview (FMI) for binge drinking because it offers a fresh approach that leverages peer support to motivate change. Unlike traditional treatments that often involve individual therapy or medication, FMI taps into the power of friendships to encourage healthier drinking habits. This method aims to create a supportive environment that could lead to more sustainable behavior change, making it a promising option for those who may not respond well to conventional treatments.

Research has shown that motivational interviewing, such as the Friend-Based Motivational Interview (FMI) tested in this trial, can help reduce alcohol consumption. For instance, one study found that heavier drinkers cut their alcohol use by half. Another study demonstrated a decrease in the number of drinks from 90 per month to 60 per month over six months. Additionally, group sessions of motivational interviewing positively affected the drinking habits of veterans. While results can vary, these findings suggest that motivational interviewing may effectively reduce binge drinking. Participants in this trial will receive either the FMI or treatment-as-usual to evaluate FMI's effectiveness in reducing binge drinking.²³⁶⁷⁸