CompletedObservational

Decision-making in alcohol use disorder

The University of Sheffield is running a study to understand how people make decisions about alcohol. Researchers want to see if decision-making processes are different in people with alcohol use disorder (AUD), people who have recovered from AUD, and those who drink alcohol socially without problems. Participants will complete computer tasks where they choose between different images, such as alcoholic drinks and other enjoyable activities. They will also answer questions about their alcohol use. The study hopes to shed light on how people make choices related to alcohol, which could help create more personalised treatments and advice for individuals looking to reduce their alcohol consumption. It runs until August 2025 and is funded by the Medical Research Council (UK).

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

University of Sheffield

Enrolment target

132

Start

14 Apr 2025

Estimated completion

31 Aug 2025

Alcohol use disorder

What is this study about?

This study is being carried out by researchers at the University of Sheffield. They want to learn more about how our brains make decisions, especially when it comes to alcohol. The main goal is to understand if people with alcohol problems, people who used to have alcohol problems but are now recovering, and people who drink casually without issues, make decisions differently.

Think of it like this: when you see something you like, your brain quickly weighs up whether you want it. This study aims to explore these quick decisions related to alcohol and other enjoyable things. By understanding these differences, the researchers hope to find new ways to help people who want to cut down on their drinking or recover from alcohol problems.

The information gathered from this study could be really helpful. It might lead to new treatments or better advice that is specifically tailored to each person's unique way of making decisions. This could make it easier for individuals to reach their goals concerning alcohol.

Key takeaways

The study explores how people make decisions about alcohol.
It involves computer tasks and questionnaires, all online.
It compares people with alcohol problems, those in recovery, and social drinkers.
Participation helps improve future alcohol support and treatments.
You get compensation for your time.
You can stop participating at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for healthy adults aged 21 and over. To join, you'll need to have access to a computer connected to the internet.

Depending on your past and current drinking habits, you might fit into one of a few groups. For example, some participants will be those currently experiencing alcohol use disorder, which means they have several symptoms related to alcohol problems and drink a certain amount each week. Another group will be people who have successfully recovered from an alcohol problem, whether they now completely avoid alcohol or drink very little.

There's also a group for 'light drinkers' who don't have alcohol problems and drink a small amount each week. The screening process will help determine which group you might be suitable for, based on specific questions about your alcohol consumption and experiences.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 21 years old or older?
Do you have access to a computer with internet?
Are you a healthy adult?
Do you fit into one of these groups: current alcohol problems, in recovery from alcohol problems (abstinent or non-abstinent), or a light drinker?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, everything will be done online from your own computer. You'll be asked to complete some tasks on the computer where you choose between various pictures. These pictures might show alcoholic drinks, non-alcoholic drinks, or other enjoyable activities that don't involve alcohol. You'll also fill out some questionnaires about your alcohol use and other personal details. This is not a study where you receive medication or have ongoing appointments; it's a one-off computer-based session. The study will run until August 2025.

Potential risks and benefits

A benefit of taking part is that you'll be helping researchers understand more about alcohol-related decision-making, which could lead to better support and treatments for others in the future. You will also receive credits to compensate you for your time. For most people, taking part is low-risk. The computer tasks are generally safe. However, answering questions about your past or current alcohol use might bring up difficult feelings for some, especially if you're in recovery or have had past struggles. If you're in recovery, you'll have the option to skip parts of the tasks that show pictures of alcohol, if you prefer. You are always free to stop participating at any time if you feel uncomfortable.

Locations (1)

University of Sheffield
Approximate
Sheffield, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is an 'alcohol use disorder'?

An alcohol use disorder means someone has difficulty controlling their drinking, even when it causes problems in their life. It's often called an alcohol problem.

Do I need to live near the university to take part?

No, you don't. All parts of this study are done online, so you can participate from anywhere as long as you have a computer and internet access.

Will I have to drink alcohol as part of the study?

No, you will not be asked to drink alcohol. The study involves looking at pictures and answering questions.

What happens to my information?

Your information will be used by the researchers at the University of Sheffield to understand decision-making. Your privacy will be protected, and your responses will be kept confidential.

Who is funding this research?

This study is being funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC), a national organisation in the UK that supports medical research.

How to find out more

Matt Field

matt.field@sheffield.ac.uk +44 114 222 6510 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.