Houston | Dearing | Connors | Homish
This study examined the association between impulse control and heart rate variability in people with alcohol use disorders and the feasibility of implementing heart rate variability training (breathing exercises) in these patients as a potential way to reduce the impulse to drink.

Impulse control may serve as an important mechanism of change in the treatment of alcohol use disorders (AUDs). Prior studies have also suggested a link between impulse control and heart rate variability (HRV), a physiological index of self-regulation. This study is designed to examine whether a direct association exists between impulse control and HRV in AUD individuals. In addition, the study will provide preliminary data regarding feasibility of implementing a breathing training to enhance HRV in this population. Results of this study should provide a foundation for future studies examining the effects of HRV training on impulse control and drinking in relation to AUDs. 

Principal Investigator
Rebecca Houston, PhD
Research Institute on Addictions

Co-Investigators
Ronda Dearing, PhD
University of Houston

Gerard Connors, PhD
Research Institute on Addictions

Gregory Homish, PhD
Department of Community Health and Health Behavior
University at Buffalo

Funding Agency
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

Dates
2012-2014