Emerging adults (ages 18-25) have the highest prevalence of alcohol use compared to other age groups. In addition, emerging adults have the highest past year use of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, prescription stimulants and sedatives, benzodiazepines, pain relievers, and opioids. Latinx young adults in particular are at a higher risk for high-risk drinking and alcohol-related negative effects due to obstacles surround discrimination and ethnic identity. Latinx drinkers are also less likely to seek treatment for alcohol use disorders (AUD) and are less likely to complete treatment if sought out. This study examines the effect of a Guided Self-Change program (GSC) on alcohol and other drug (AOD) use among Latinx college students.  

The study’s sample consisted of 73 college students (58.9% Hispanic/Latinx) from a large urban minority serving university. Of the 73 respondents, 47 completed the program. The program consisted of four individual face-to-face sessions and a survey completed at the beginning and end of the program. The first session addressed pros/cons of substance use, motivation/confidence to change, identifying triggers, and setting weekly goals. During the second session slips/slip backs, change plans, social support, and other life changes were discussed. The third session addressed preventing/coping with stress, mindfulness, and setting long term goals. During the last session, the participant was asked to review and reflect on their experience and continued independent application of their new learned skills. Data was analyzed using paired samples t-tests and Wilcoxon Signed Rank tests to assess for AOD changes following the intervention.  

Results of the data analysis showed a statistically significant increase in confidence to change and readiness to change from baseline to completion of sessions. Importance of change increased from baseline but this result was not statistically significant. Compared to baseline, there was a significant decrease in binge drinking, a non-significant decrease in alcohol use, and a significant decrease in cannabis use. Lastly, readiness to change was shown to predict the reductions in binge drinking and cannabis use. Confidence to change and importance to change did not significantly predict changes in alcohol and cannabis use. 

Takeaway: A culturally and developmentally tailored Guided Self-Change program may reduce alcohol and other drug use among Latinx college students. 

Morris, S.L., Langwerden, R.J., Wagner, E.F., Hospital, M.M.. Implementation of a brief motivational intervention for alcohol and other drug using Latinx college students [published online ahead of print, 2022 Jul 11]. Journal of American College Health. 2022;1-11. doi:10.1080/07448481.2022.2090258