Social Facilitation of Alcohol Effects and Alcohol Misuse in Young Adults

Summary

The purpose of this study is to understand social contexts and alcohol use. We hope to learn how being around peers affects alcohol consumption in young adults. About 200 young adults who drink alcohol frequently will take part in the study. This research is being funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). Participation involves one in-person screening session with a same-sex platonic friend. Then participants will complete four in-person laboratory sessions where they will drink beverages containing alcohol or no alcohol. After completion of the laboratory sessions, participants will complete smartphone surveys for 28 days. Lastly, they will complete follow-up surveys 6 months and 12 months post-study enrollment.

Timeline

Start

2025-02-20

Primary completion

2029-08-31

Completion

2029-08-31

Publications

• Pang RD, Schuler LA, Fairbairn CE, Huh J, Kirkpatrick MG. Social facilitation as a risk factor for alcohol misuse in young adults: study protocol for a prospective alcohol administration study. BMC Psychol. 2026 May 28. doi: 10.1186/s40359-026-04880-0. Online ahead of print.

Drugs

Indications