Directly reinforcing abstinence from alcohol with monetary incentives is an effective treatment for alcohol dependence, but barriers in obtaining frequent, verified biochemical measures of abstinence limit the dissemination of this treatment approach. The goal of this study is to use technological advancements to remotely, accurately, and securely monitor alcohol use with a newly developed smartphone app and breathalyzer. This treatment approach has the potential to facilitate the dissemination of an effective, evidence-based treatment for alcohol dependence to a broader population whose treatment needs are not currently being adequately met.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
211
Monetary incentives are delivered to participants contingent upon on-time breathalyzer submissions and verified abstinence from alcohol.
Monetary incentives are delivered to participants contingent upon on-time breathalyzer submissions only with no contingency on alcohol use.
Nationwide Online Enrollment from the Unversity of Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky, United States
University of Kentucky Turfland: In-person enrollment
Lexington, Kentucky, United States
Carilion Clinic: In person-enrollment
Roanoke, Virginia, United States
Pattern of abstinence from alcohol during intervention
Breathalyzer assessments will be collected during the treatment period. This outcome measure will consist of the percentage of days without alcohol use as detected by the breathalyzers.
Time frame: up to 66 weeks
Treatment acceptability
Participant ratings of treatment acceptability on a customized questionnaire will be collected during assessment sessions
Time frame: A total of 12 assessment sessions spanning over a 66 week period.
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