A pilot RCT found that a personalized feedback program targeting genetically influenced risk factors (sensation seeking, impulsivity, extraversion, neuroticism) significantly reduced cannabis use in first-year college students.
College health professionals, prevention researchers, substance use counselors
Significant cannabis use reductions in the personalized feedback group
What the researchers found
Among 251 first-year college students randomized to four groups, those receiving the Personalized Feedback Program (PFP) showed significant reductions in cannabis use compared to other groups. The PFP targeted four genetically influenced risk domains: sensation seeking, impulsivity, extraversion, and neuroticism. No significant effects on alcohol use were found, though trends were in the expected direction.
Why it matters
This is one of the first studies to translate genetic epidemiological findings into a practical prevention tool, using personality-based risk pathways rather than genetic testing itself.
The numbers in context
251 first-year students; 4 randomization groups; significant cannabis reduction in PFP group; high satisfaction ratings; 30-day and 3-month follow-ups
How the study worked
Pilot RCT with 251 first-year college students randomized to control, PFP alone, computer-delivered brief motivational intervention (BMI), or combined PFP+BMI. Follow-up surveys at 30 days and 3 months post-intervention assessed alcohol and cannabis use.
What this study cannot tell us
Pilot study with relatively small sample. Short follow-up period. Self-reported substance use. First-year students may not represent all college populations.
How to read the evidence
Pilot RCT with appropriate randomization and follow-up, but small sample size and short follow-up period limit conclusions.
When this study was published
Published 2023
The bigger picture
With cannabis use at historic highs among college students, interventions that target underlying personality-based risk factors rather than just cannabis-specific messaging may offer a novel prevention approach.
Questions still open
- Would the PFP effects persist beyond 3 months? Could this approach be scaled across universities? Why did it work for cannabis but not alcohol?
Common questions
Can personalized feedback reduce cannabis use in college students?
How does this approach differ from traditional prevention?
Read the original research
Bridging the gap between genetic epidemiological research and prevention: A randomized control trial of a novel personalized feedback program for alcohol and cannabis use.
Drug and alcohol dependence, 249, 110818
Citation
Choi, Maia; Driver, Morgan N; Balcke, Emily; Saunders, Trisha; Langberg, Joshua M; Dick, Danielle M. (2023). Bridging the gap between genetic epidemiological research and prevention: A randomized control trial of a novel personalized feedback program for alcohol and cannabis use.. Drug and alcohol dependence, 249, 110818. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.110818
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