Summary:
The particular concern of this research is with high-risk groups such as students celebrating their 21st birthdays and first year students. While both of these groups are considered high-risk at most campuses nationwide, North Dakota youth and NDSU students exceed national averages for consumption quantities and alcohol-related consequences (Core Alcohol and Drug Survey, 2003; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2004). First year students represent the majority of students taken to de-tox each year by NDSU police due to dangerously high blood alcohol levels. In addition, there is a crucial need to intervene with students turning 21, as celebratory drinking has been found to be a serious concern at this university.
The research project consists of two studies that address the needs of the NDSU populations listed above. Both studies have the similar long-term aim of reducing alcohol consumption and alcohol-related problems by way of personalized normative feedback intervention strategies. Study one consists of a randomized controlled trial with three conditions (personalized gender-specific normative feedback, personalized gender-nonspecific normative feedback, and control) for incoming freshmen at NDSU. All students will complete baseline assessment, one-month follow-up, and six-month follow-up. Study two consists of a randomized controlled trial with two intervention groups (21st birthday specific normative feedback and control). Study two participants will complete baseline assessment and two follow-up assessments. The first follow-up assessment will occur directly after feedback is provided in order to assess any change in drinking intentions on the 21st birthday. The second and final follow-up assessment will be collected approximately one week after participants’ birthdays to assess self-reported drinking behavior that occurred while celebrating their 21st birthdays.
