A web-based intervention using social cognitive theory for unsafe drinking among Asian Indian international college students

Asian Indian international college students are considered a model minority in the United States. However, literature has shown that there are a growing number of Asian Indian International college students who are consuming alcohol more than the required amounts. A preliminary study done at two Midwestern Universities found that 62% of Asian Indian students consumed alcohol and of which 44% males and 7% females engaged in binge drinking. Therefore the purpose of this study was to conduct a web-based intervention among Asian Indian International college students using social cognitive theory that focused on enhancing situational perceptions pertaining to alcohol use, outcome expectations as well as the outcome expectancies or the valuations of their expected drinking outcomes, self-efficacy and self control. A total of 60 participants were randomized to intervention (n=30) and control group (n=30). The intervention was done for a period of 6 weeks. The control group received modules on general health related topics such as diet and exercise, while the intervention group received modules on alcohol facts and effects, perceptions of peer drinking norms, resources to develop alternative healthy behaviors, ways for developing self-efficacy and self control to quit drinking alcohol. A 46 item valid and reliable pre-test and post test survey was conducted to measure the effectiveness of the intervention. Results showed significant changes in constructs of social cognitive theory, alcohol use, and binge drinking behaviors. Social cognitive theory is a useful framework for designing interventions in this area.