Project ACE is a study that uses transdermal alcohol sensors to examine early signs of alcohol use disorder and drinking patterns of college students. Over 4 weekends, this study examined transdermal alcohol concentration features (peak intoxication & speed of intoxication) associated with tolerance and alcohol-induced blackouts. Cognitive factors relating to tolerance, blackouts, and drinking patterns were also considered. Study participants were randomized into two groups: biosensor and survey group, and a survey only group. Findings from this study will provide insight to differences in alcohol consumption patterns and subsequent behaviors as well as efforts to best reduce symptoms of alcohol use disorder.

Funded by the Penn State Department of Biobehavioral Health
Principal Investigators: Rob Turrisi, Ph.D., Kimberly Mallett, Ph.D, Michael Russell, Ph.D., Veroncia Richards, Ph.D.

Project Chat (P-Chat) was designed to examine if a brief Zoom-based intervention with parents of incoming students results in less risky drinking and associated consequences in their underage student. This project looks at students’ alcohol use every 3 months during their first year of college. The study participants are randomized into four groups: the Zoom interview; the Zoom interview and reading a 20-page handbook written by Turrisi; handbook only; and control group with no intervention. Findings from this study will inform future interventions and programs for college students.

Funded by the NIH/NIAAA.
Principal Investigator: Rob Turrisi, Ph.D.

Project e-PBI+ was designed to examine if a brief electronic handbook intervention given to parents of incoming students results in in less risky drinking, cannabis use, and associated consequences in their underage student. This project looks at students’ alcohol and cannabis use every 3 months during their first year of college. Parent participants were randomized into three groups, each with a handbook: Parents & Families Guide;  Talking with College Students About Alcohol; and Talking with College Students About Alcohol and Cannabis. Findings from this study will better inform future interventions and programs for college students.

Funded by the NIH/NIAAA
Principal Investigator: Rob Turrisi, Ph.D.

Project PLUS (Penn State Latino/a/x University Study) was designed to examine the impact of discrimination and microaggressions on Latino/a/x college students’ mental health and substances use behaviors. This project looks at Latino/a/x students’ past-year and daily experiences with discrimination, microaggressions, anxiety, depression, and substance use. Findings from this study will inform future culturally relevant interventions and programs for Latino/a/x college students.

Funded by the NIH/NIAAA.
Principal Investigator: Katja Waldron, M.S.