Behavioural self-control training versus motivational enhancement therapy for individuals with alcohol use disorder with a goal of controlled drinking: A randomized controlled trial

Background and aims

Controlled drinking (CD) is an attractive treatment goal for a large proportion of individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD), but the availability of treatment methods supporting a goal of CD is scarce. We tested if behavioural self-control training (BSCT) was superior to motivational enhancement therapy (MET) for individuals with AUD with a treatment goal of CD.

Design

Randomized controlled two-group trial. Follow-ups were conducted at 12 and 26 weeks (primary end-point) after inclusion.

Setting

Three specialized dependency care clinics in Stockholm, Sweden.

Participants

Two hundred and fifty self-referred adults (52% men) fulfilling criteria of AUD (DSM-5) and a stated treatment goal of CD.

Intervention and comparator

BSCT (n = 125), a five-session treatment based on cognitive behavioural therapy versus the active comparator, MET (n = 125), containing four sessions based on Motivational Interviewing.

Measurements

Primary outcome measure was mean weekly alcohol consumption at the 26-week follow-up, adjusted for baseline consumption.

Conclusions

A randomized controlled trial found no evidence of a difference between behavioural self-control training and motivational enhancement therapy in reducing weekly alcohol consumption. Both groups substantially reduced consumption and behavioural self-control training was superior in reducing hazardous drinking.