Examining alcohol use in romantic relationships
Official title: Understanding Alcohol Use in Young Adult Couples
Run by Carnegie Mellon University · NCT06822257 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 21 Years to 30 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 504 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Carnegie Mellon University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 1, 2025 |
| Main results expected | September 2029 |
| Study ends | September 2029 |
| Registry record updated | May 28, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06822257 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are couples aged 21 to 30 who regularly consume alcohol and own a smartphone.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with a history of major alcohol-related problems or adverse reactions to alcohol may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: Other studies have explored alcohol consumption in relationships, but this specific approach using a multi-method assessment is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Kasey G. Creswell, PhD
- Email: kasey@andrew.cmu.edu
- Phone: 412-779-4931
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.