Creating a treatment for alcohol use disorder that is accessible for the Deaf community
Designing Deaf-MET: A Deaf-Accessible Pre-Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
This study is creating a special program to help Deaf people who struggle with alcohol use, making sure it fits their language and culture so they can get the support they need in a way that really speaks to them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10897152 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a culturally and linguistically appropriate pre-treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD) specifically designed for Deaf individuals who communicate using American Sign Language (ASL). The project recognizes that the Deaf community faces unique challenges, including higher rates of problem drinking and a lack of tailored treatment options. By utilizing community-engaged methods, the study will adapt Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) to meet the specific needs of Deaf clients, ensuring that treatment materials are accessible and relevant. The approach will involve direct ASL translations and storytelling techniques to enhance understanding and engagement.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Deaf individuals aged 21 and older who experience problem drinking or alcohol use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who do not communicate using American Sign Language or who do not identify as part of the Deaf community may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide Deaf individuals with effective, culturally relevant treatment options for alcohol use disorder, improving their overall health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically targeting the Deaf community in this area, the adaptation of existing therapeutic approaches for underserved populations has shown promise in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilkins, Alexander Monroe — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Wilkins, Alexander Monroe
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.