Behavior Change Strategies Underutilized by Alcohol Use Disorder Sufferers

Abstract

Research suggests emphasizing underutilized behavior change strategies improves therapeutic outcomes in people with alcohol use disorders (AUDs). Using the transtheoretical model as a backdrop this study assessed utilization of experiential and action-based “processes of change” (POCs) by dependent, harmful, hazardous, and low-risk drinkers. Two-hundred university undergraduates completed a questionnaire survey assessing AUDs and POCs in relation to alcohol consumption. Situational control—an effective action-based strategy—did not vary across groups but was the least preferred strategy within each group, except low-risk drinkers. Overall, people with AUDs avoided managing high-risk situations in favor of experiential appraisals.

KEYWORDS:

• Trans-theoretical
• processes
• experiential
• behavioral
• alcohol