Examining alcohol use in romantic relationships

Understanding Alcohol Use in Young Adult Couples

Not applicable Interventional Carnegie Mellon University · NCT06822257

This study is testing how drinking alcohol affects couples' relationships by having them drink either alcohol or non-alcoholic drinks and then answer questions about their relationship over time.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment504 (estimated)
Ages21 Years to 30 Years
SexAll
SponsorCarnegie Mellon University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT06822257 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of alcohol consumption on the dynamics of romantic relationships by having couples participate in a laboratory session where they consume either an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage. Participants will complete various tasks and questionnaires to assess their drinking habits and relationship factors. The study employs a multi-method approach, including self-reports and ecological momentary assessments, to track changes over time with follow-ups at 6 and 12 months. The goal is to enhance understanding of alcohol's role in relationships and inform strategies for healthier behaviors.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are couples aged 21 to 30 who regularly consume alcohol and own a smartphone.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of major alcohol-related problems or adverse reactions to alcohol may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved interventions for promoting healthier drinking behaviors and relationship outcomes among couples.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored alcohol consumption in relationships, but this specific approach using a multi-method assessment is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Both members of the couple must:

* be between the ages of 21 and 30
* regularly consume alcohol
* own a smartphone

Exclusion Criteria:

Neither member of the couple:

* has a history of adverse reaction to the amount of beverage used in the study
* has a history of major problems related to alcohol
* is taking medications that could adversely interact with alcohol
* is pregnant

Where this trial is running

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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 Alcohol ConsumptionAlcohol DrinkingAlcohol Intoxicationalcohol administrationcouples
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.