Strategies of self-control in male young offenders who have reduced their alcohol consumption without formal intervention

Abstract

Fifty-one imprisoned male young offenders who reported having stopped or reduced their alcohol consumption without formal intervention were studied to discover which self-control strategies they used to help them change their drinking behaviour. Change was precipitated by adverse consequences of drinking, particularly crime and violence. The most commonly used strategies involve social change: finding alternative activities, avoiding heavy-drinking friends, and avoiding situations where heavy drinking typically occurs. Next most frequently used strategies involve setting limits: restricting drinking time, expenditure on drink, and alcohol consumption. Finally, rate control, including beverage changes from stronger to weaker or non-alcoholic drinks, is a commonly reported strategy. The implications for the design of intervention programmes are discussed.