Understanding the factors that lead to problematic alcohol use in young people

A rigorous test of dual process model predictions for problematic alcohol involvement

NIH-funded research University of Iowa · NIH-10932191

This study is looking at why some people under 21 have trouble with alcohol, focusing on how their cravings for alcohol and their ability to control those cravings work together, to help find better ways to prevent and address alcohol problems in young people.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Iowa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10932191 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the reasons behind problematic alcohol involvement (PAI) in individuals under 21 years of age. It focuses on the interaction between two cognitive systems: the desire for alcohol and the ability to control that desire. By using advanced neurobehavioral assessments, the study aims to better understand individual differences in these traits and how they contribute to alcohol-related issues. The goal is to refine existing models to improve predictions and inform more effective prevention and intervention strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old who may be experiencing problematic alcohol use or are at risk for developing such issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are over 21 years old or do not engage in alcohol consumption may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective prevention and treatment strategies for young individuals struggling with alcohol use.

How similar studies have performed: While the Dual Process Model has been influential, previous studies have not consistently supported its main hypotheses, making this research a novel attempt to refine and validate the model.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.