Behavioral activation program for college freshmen to reduce alcohol use

A Cluster-randomized Trial of a Behavioral Activation Intervention Administered in a College Freshman Orientation Course

Phase 2 Interventional University of Kansas · NCT04038190

This study tests a new program for college freshmen that helps them manage stress and sleep better to see if it can also reduce their drinking habits.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment540 (estimated)
Ages17 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Kansas Academic / other
Locations1 site (Lawrence, Kansas)
Trial IDNCT04038190 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This intervention focuses on college freshmen during their transition from high school, a critical period for increased alcohol use. It aims to engage students in a behavioral activation program integrated into their freshman orientation course, addressing their primary concerns such as stress and sleep, while indirectly reducing risky drinking behaviors. By encouraging students to set personal goals and participate in reinforcing activities, the program seeks to enhance their overall well-being and reduce alcohol-related problems. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of this approach compared to traditional methods that directly target alcohol consumption.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are college freshmen enrolled in UNIV 101 seminar courses at the University of Kansas.

Not a fit: Patients who are not college freshmen or those not enrolled in the specified seminar courses may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce alcohol-related problems among college freshmen by addressing their broader concerns.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise for behavioral activation approaches in reducing substance use, indicating potential success for this novel application in a college setting.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* College freshmen enrolled in UNIV 101 freshman seminar courses at the University of Kansas assigned to the study

Exclusion Criteria:

* None

Where this trial is running

Lawrence, Kansas

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions AlcoholUse, ProblemStressBinge EatingDepressionbehavioral activationpreventionreinforcement
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.