In this project, women heavy drinkers without histories of severe physical dependence on alcohol participated in a group-based intervention focusing on reducing alcohol consumption. Some participants were exposed to intervention enhancements: life-skills training and/or post-intervention booster sessions. Participants were monitored for an 18-month period following the intervention. In terms of alcohol use, women responded positively to treatment. Participants showed significant reductions in drinking throughout the 18 months after treatment. The treatment enhancements (life management skills and booster sessions) led to significantly improved drinking outcomes among women who were heavier drinkers at pretreatment. There were no significant effects of the treatment enhancements among women who were lighter drinkers at pretreatment. In addition, participants reported significant decreases in drinking consequences and improvements in several domains of life functioning. Funded by a grant of $917,074 from NIAAA, 1990-95.
