Impulsive Decision Reduction Training (IDRT) reduces binge drinking and increases future orientation in young adult binge drinkers

This paper introduces Impulsive Decision Reduction Training (IDRT) as a “proof of concept” in terms of its feasibility and preliminary outcome associations. IDRT is a novel, manualized, 8-week intervention designed to reduce impulsive and risky decisions regarding alcohol consumption and reduce excessive drinking. We conducted a pilot study of IDRT in young adult college students who binge drink, comparing IDRT with a waitlist control condition. Twenty-five participants (13 women, 12 men) completed the 8-week IDRT intervention and were compared with 20 (6 women and 14 men) who completed the assessments in the waitlist control group. IDRT was well-received (rated as very helpful), with all sessions attended, and only one IDRT participant dropping out after 3 sessions. Three waitlist control participants did not show up for the additional assessments after their initial baseline assessment. IDRT was associated with significant and large increases in future orientation and the consideration of the consequences of decisions (ps < 0.001). IDRT also associated with significant but modest reductions in the frequency of drinking (p < 0.05) and the maximum number of drinks consumed (p < 0.05), but not in the average quantity of alcohol consumed in an occasion or delay discounting rates, compared to a waitlist control condition. IDRT shows some initial promise as an intervention targeting reductions in impulsive and risky drinking decisions and reducing excessive drinking. Formal clinical trials should be conducted to more comprehensively assess the effectiveness of IDRT in reducing excessive drinking.