Alcohol Use Disorder Research Study
Researchers at Medical University of South Carolina are conducting a study to learn more about the relationship between race-related stress and alcohol cravings.
Fast Facts
Identify as Black or African American
Drink Alcohol Heavily
Compensation Provided
Conducted in
Charleston, SC
Study Background
Could race-related stress affect alcohol use and cravings?
Studies show that race-related stressors can produce reactions similar to traumatic stress, however, little research has been done to learn more about how this specific form of stress impacts alcohol use and cravings.
Through this study, we are investigating the relationship between race-related stress and alcohol use disorder by examining the impact of race-related stress on subjective, physiological, and neuroendocrine reactivity.
In addition to furthering research on alcohol use disorder, by joining this research study you will also receive a thorough psychological and substance use assessment at no cost to you!
Study Background
Could race-related stress affect alcohol use and cravings?
Studies show that race-related stressors can produce reactions similar to traumatic stress, however, little research has been done to learn more about how this specific form of stress impacts alcohol use and cravings.
Through this study, we are investigating the relationship between race-related stress and alcohol use disorder by examining the impact of race-related stress on subjective, physiological, and neuroendocrine reactivity.
In addition to furthering research on alcohol use disorder, by joining this research study you will also receive a thorough psychological and substance use assessment at no cost to you!
Additional Information
The purpose of this research study is to learn more about the relationship between race-related stress and alcohol use and cravings.
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 18-65
- Identify as Black or African American
- Drink alcohol heavily
- Have experienced racial trauma or stress
- Not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- No history of psychotic or bipolar affective disorder
- If taking psychiatric medications, on a stable dose for the past month
- Not currently taking Disulfiram, Acamprosate, or Naloxone
The entire study will last approximately 2 months and will consist of a baseline appointment, a laboratory visit, 4 weeks of daily surveys, and 1 follow-up appointment. Most sessions can be done virtually, but the laboratory visit must be completed in person.
The daily surveys will be sent to participants’ mobile devices and will consist of questions about substance use, experiences of racial discrimination, mood, cravings, and coping strategies.
During the laboratory visit, researchers will measure cravings, stress, heart rate, galvanic skin conductance, and neuroendocrine reactivity to better understand the relationship between race-related stress and alcohol use disorder.
As a participant, you can receive up to $425 for completing all study tasks.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
Next Steps
Prescreening
Complete a simple screening form and we share your data with the study research team through our secure platform.
Qualification Review
The research team reviews your data and may reach out to further qualify or discuss your participation in the study.
Study Enrollment
Enrollment in the study is a collaborative determination made by both you and the study team. Any subsequent interactions, after completing the prescreening form, will be exclusively between you and the study team.
