The aim of this study is to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of an alcohol-specific intervention program for adult individuals on probation who have problems related to alcohol use. The study was designed as a single-blind randomized controlled trial and was conducted at the Izmir Probation Directorate with a total of 115 participants, 58 in the intervention group and 57 in the control group. When comparing the results between the intervention and control groups, the Alcohol Intervention Program-which consisted of six structured sessions-was found to be effective in reducing participants' alcohol consumption and related problems, while also increasing their motivation for change. This research is significant as it represents the first intervention program developed specifically for alcohol use within the probation system. While existing interventions in both Turkey and abroad often focus on individuals who use illicit substances, alcohol-related problems are frequently overlooked. The results of this study aim to meet that systemic need. The Alcohol Intervention Program developed here can be integrated into routine practices within the scope of educational improvement programs in the probation system.
This study aimed to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a structured Alcohol Intervention Program (AIP) for adults under probation who experience alcohol-related problems. The research was designed as a single-blind randomized controlled trial and was conducted at the Izmir Probation Directorate in Turkey between June and November 2023. A total of 115 participants were recruited and randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 58) and a control group (n = 57). The intervention group received a structured program consisting of six bi-weekly sessions based on motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral strategies. No intervention program was administered to the control group. Standardized self-report tools, including the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST), and the Stages of Change Readiness and Treatment Eagerness Scale (SOCRATES), were administered as pre- and post-tests. Statistical analysis included paired-samples t-tests, independent-samples t-tests, ANOVA, chi-square, and regression analysis. The results showed that participants in the intervention group demonstrated a significant reduction in alcohol use and related problems, as well as a significant increase in motivation to change, compared to the control group. The study demonstrates that the AIP is effective in supporting rehabilitation within the probation system and highlights the need for structured, alcohol-specific programs in this context. This research is significant in that it represents the first intervention program developed specifically for alcohol use within the probation system in Turkey. The findings suggest that the program can be integrated into existing probation practices and adapted to other contexts with similar needs. This study helps fill an important gap in the system and provides a foundation for future large-scale implementation research.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
115
A brief behavioral intervention consisting of six bi-weekly group sessions based on motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral strategies. The aim was to reduce alcohol use and related problems and increase motivation to change.
İzmir Probation Directorate
Izmir, Turkey (Türkiye)
Reduction in Alcohol Use (AUDIT Score)
The primary outcome was the change in participants' alcohol consumption, measured by the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). The AUDIT consists of 10 items with a total score range of 0 to 40. Higher scores reflect more severe alcohol use. The effectiveness of the Alcohol Intervention Program (AIP) was evaluated by comparing AUDIT scores at baseline and at the end of the study (Week 12, immediately after the last session). A significant reduction in scores indicated decreased alcohol use and fewer alcohol-related problems.
Time frame: From baseline to study completion (Week 12, immediately after completion of the 6-session program)
Reduction in Alcohol-Related Problems (MAST Score)
This secondary outcome assessed changes in alcohol-related problems using the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST). The MAST consists of 25 items with a total score range of 0 to 53. Higher scores indicate alcohol-related problems and impairments in social functioning. Scores at baseline and at the end of the study (Week 12) were compared, and reductions indicated improvements in alcohol-related problems.
Time frame: From baseline to study completion (Week 12, immediately after completion of the 6-session program)
Increase in Motivation to Change (SOCRATES Score)
This outcome measured participants' motivation to change their alcohol use behaviors using the Stages of Change Readiness and Treatment Eagerness Scale (SOCRATES). The version used in this study included 19 items with a total score range of 19 to 95. Higher scores indicated greater readiness for change and stronger motivation to reduce alcohol use. Scores at baseline and at the end of the study (Week 12) were compared, and an increase in scores reflected a rise in participants' motivation to change.
Time frame: From baseline to study completion (Week 12, immediately after completion of the 6-session program)
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