Digital interventions delivered via smartphones and web platforms may help reduce alcohol and cannabis-related harms among young adults, according to new research published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs. The studies suggest that using real-time data collection through daily surveys or "ecological momentary assessments" can inform personalized feedback and behavioral strategies.
Heavy drinking and cannabis use remain significant issues for young adults, leading to consequences such as car accidents, assaults, and injuries. Researchers are exploring how digital tools can be used to gather information from individuals in their everyday environments, allowing for more tailored support.
Two of the three studies and an accompanying editorial were co-authored by Fairlie. Fairlie commented, "Placing these three research articles together makes clear that similar data can be incorporated into different types of interventions in unique ways."
One study led by Traci M. Kennedy at the University of Pittsburgh focused on young adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) who are at higher risk for heavy drinking. Participants received frequent check-ins via smartphone to identify patterns between ADHD symptoms and alcohol use. Tailored feedback was provided based on individual responses to increase self-awareness and reduce consumption.
Another study led by Melissa A. Lewis from the University of Texas at Arlington described a web-based intervention followed by text messages sent three times weekly over eight weeks. The approach aimed to understand motivations and barriers related to substance use so messages could promote "protective behavioral strategies"—methods to moderate use and lower risk.
The third study, conducted by Fairlie and colleagues, utilized ecological momentary assessment to collect real-time data about cravings triggered by various cues or situations. Over 17 days, participants completed multiple daily surveys before receiving a one-time personalized feedback session based on their aggregated results.
Fairlie observed, "One clear theme across the studies was the importance of tailoring interventions, even though each used a distinct approach." Fairlie added: "Together, they illustrate multiple pathways to meaningful personalization and reinforce the idea that ecological momentary assessment is a flexible tool rather than a fixed approach. It was encouraging to see that adaptability across studies."
Fairlie concluded: "There are many ways to translate daily and ecological momentary assessment data into personalized intervention content, which is important for advancing innovation while still grounding the work in strong methodology."
Looking ahead, Fairlie suggested that ongoing research will lead to new digital interventions designed specifically for different groups of at-risk young adults.
