Study Comparing Motivational Interviewing Programs to Increase Bystander Actions and Reduce Alcohol Use in Young Adults Ages 18-25

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating ways to motivate young adults to act as active bystanders to prevent sexual assault, focusing on how alcohol use affects intervention efforts. The study compares three approaches a motivational interviewing program to increase bystander behaviors Motivate-the-Bystander, the same program combined with alcohol reduction strategies Motivate-the-BystanderAlcohol, and a control program focused on stress reduction. This randomized controlled trial aims to see which method better encourages intervention and reduces risky drinking among heavy-drinking young adults aged 18 to 25. Participants will complete one of three online programs delivered via Zoom Motivate-the-Bystander, Motivate-the-BystanderAlcohol, or an attention control program teaching stress reduction techniques like progressive muscle relaxation. After the program, they will participate in a virtual reality simulation to observe bystander behavior. Daily electronic diaries will track alcohol use and intervention attempts weekly for up to nine months. Participants will provide self-reports on bystander actions, drinking, and related behaviors through online questionnaires and daily diaries. Observational assessments during the virtual reality simulation will measure actual intervention behaviors. The study will evaluate changes in alcohol use and bystander actions over nine months, with safety and adherence monitored throughout. The total participation period is approximately nine months, including follow-up assessments and daily diary entries.

Motivations, Attitudes, and Perceptions Study