Electronic communication based interventions for hazardous young drinkers: A systematic review

⿢Although most interventions are web based, other modalities incluing text messaging, mobile phone applications and SNS demonstrate the potential in reaching a large number of young people in an non-intrusive manner.⿢The ability to provide personalized feedback resulted in a reduction in (a) alcohol consumption (b) frequency of binge drinking and (c) drinking in a non-risky way.⿢Intervention length did not appear to have an impact on overall effectiveness. Previous reviews have specifically looked at computer-based or Internet-based approaches. However, there has been no systematic review focused upon electronic communication based interventions for hazardous young drinkers. Out of 3298 relevant citations, 13 papers consisting of 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. Effectiveness of intervention delivery was assessed using behavioural outcomes. Eight papers delivered interventions using the Web, three implemented text messaging, one used a mobile phone app and the remaining paper used a social networking site. The ability to provide personalized electronic feedback resulted in a reduction in alcohol consumption, frequency of binge drinking, and drinking in a non-risky way. However, intervention length did not appear to have an impact on overall effectiveness. Usage of text messaging and Social Network Sites (SNS) increased accessibility and ease of engaging in an intervention that is appealing and acceptable for young adults.