Examining executive functioning: A randomized controlled trial of alcohol misuse interventions for college students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
Nicholas P Marsh, Nadia Bounoua, Michael C Meinzer et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial examined the effectiveness of a brief motivational intervention combined with behavioral activation (BMI + BA) versus BMI with supportive counseling in reducing alcohol misuse among 112 college students with ADHD. The study found that participants with clinically elevated executive functioning (EF) impairment experienced greater reductions in alcohol-related negative consequences with BMI + BA, and overall EF improved over time in this group.
Key findings
- Participants with elevated EF impairment showed greater reductions in alcohol-related negative consequences with BMI + BA.
- Overall EF significantly improved over time across the full sample.
- Only BMI + BA demonstrated significant within-group EF improvement.
- Most EF gains in BMI + BA occurred from Session 4 through 3-month follow-up.
Why it matters
Understanding the relationship between executive functioning and alcohol misuse interventions can help tailor treatments for college students with ADHD, potentially leading to better outcomes and reduced negative consequences associated with alcohol use.