Neurocognitive and Neurobehavioral Mechanisms of Change following Psychological Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder

Project Principal Investigator/s:
Dr. Barbara McCrady

Funding Agency:
NIH/NIAAA

Amount Awarded:
$2,935,546

Period of Performance:
04/2018 - 03/2023

Goals and Aims of Study

Aim 1: To examine hypothesis-driven neurocognitive and behavioral mechanisms of drinking behavior changes following two treatments that will target three hypothesized mechanisms: craving/regulation of craving, cognitive and behavioral control, and regulation of affect/arousal.

Aim 2: To identify baseline characteristics (neurocognitive and behavioral) predictive of reductions in drinking over time and differential patterns of response to Cognitive Behavior Therapy or Mindfulness Based Treatment.

How this Research Will Benefit Society

Gaining an understanding of the mechanisms that lead to successful drinking behavior change during treatment for alcohol use disorders is critical for improving treatment outcomes. The current study will examine behavior change from multiple perspectives including self-report, behavioral performance, and functional neuroimaging within the context of cognitive behavioral treatment or mindfulness based treatment to identify those mechanisms that lead to reductions in drinking. Results from the proposed study may provide key mechanisms that could be targeted in future treatment studies.