Evaluating a brief alcohol intervention with fraternities

Objective: The current study tested the efficacy of a brief intervention de signed to reduce drinking and drinking-related consequences among first-yea r fraternity members. Method: Twelve fraternities were randomly assigned to receive either a motivational enhancement intervention with individual and housewide feedback components (n = 6 houses) or a treatment-as-usual contr ol condition (n = 6 houses). Individual feedback was delivered either by pe er interviewers or professional research staff. Participants were assessed during their pledge (first) year of house membership and during a follow-up period 1 year later. Results: Of the participants who completed follow-up (N = 120), fraternity members who received the brief intervention reported significant reductions in alcohol use (total average consumption) and typic al peak blood alcohol concentrations when compared with fraternity members in the control condition. No differences in drinking-related consequences w ere observed. Fraternity members who received their individualized feedback from peer interviewers and professional members of the research staff repo rted similar outcomes. Conclusions: Results provide support for the efficac y of a brief motivational enhancement intervention in reducing drinking wit hin this high-risk population. The cost-effective use of peer interviewers appears to be a promising strategy for delivering individualized prevention programming in college populations.