Exploring the link between alcohol misuse, PTSD, and intimate partner violence in couples

Is this trial a fit for you?

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 relationship between alcohol misuse and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and their combined effects on intimate partner violence (IPV) among couples. It will involve 70 couples participating in controlled laboratory settings where alcohol will be administered to assess its impact on IPV. The research aims to integrate findings from alcohol misuse and PTSD literature to develop effective prevention and treatment strategies for alcohol-related IPV. The study is led by Dr. Flanagan, who will enhance her research skills through mentorship and training.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion criteria

1. Any gender identity; any race or ethnicity; ages 21 years or older.
2. Must report ≥ 2 heavy drinking episodes in the past 30 days (i.e., 4 or more drinks for women, 5 or more for men in ≤ 2 hours) and consumed a quantity of alcohol that is equal to or greater than the standard dose administered for their weight in the laboratory (assessed via the TLFB).
3. At least one instance of physical IPV in the current relationship reported by at least one partner within the couple (assessed by the CTS-2).
4. Participants must agree not to drive or operate machinery for the remainder of the experimental visit day. Transportation will be provided if necessary.
5. One or both partners in half the couples will be required to meet diagnostic criteria for PTSD or subthreshold PTSD (assessed by the CAPS-5).

Exclusion criteria:

1. Possible drug use disorder (except caffeine or nicotine) as meeting DSM-5 diagnostic criteria via the QuickSCID; Recent recreational drug use (e.g., cannabis) is acceptable.
2. Severe alcohol use disorder as meeting DSM-5 diagnostic criteria via the QuickSCID. Applies to those receiving alcohol administration only.
3. Meeting DSM-5 criteria for a history of or current psychotic or bipolar disorders.
4. Current suicidal or homicidal ideation and intent.
5. History of or current psychiatric or medical condition for which alcohol administration is medically contraindicated.
6. Body weight \> 250 lbs (in order to rigorously control alcohol dosing). Applies to those receiving alcohol administration only.
7. Use of medications such as lithium, methadone, alpha or beta blockers or cholinergic/ anticholinergic drugs likely to confound normative cardiovascular responding for the psychophysiological component of the project. Applies to those receiving alcohol administration only.
8. Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
9. Severe or unilateral partner violence in the past 6 months as measured by the CTS-2.

Where it's running

• Medical University of South Carolina
  Charleston, South Carolina, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Stacey Sellers
• Email: sellersst@musc.edu
• Phone: 843-792-5807

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.