Approach and avoidance motivation in alcohol dependence
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The effect of stress on approach and avoidance behaviours in alcohol dependence
IRAS ID
116994
Contact name
Eleanor Taylor
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Manchester
Research summary
This study aims to test the influence of positive motivations (seeking desirable outcomes) and negative motivations (avoiding undesirable outcomes)in alcohol dependence and how these are influenced by levels of stress. Negative motivations will be assessed by measuring the tendency to avoid certain stimuli, and we will study how this tendency relates to impulsivity (acting without due consideration) and reward sensitivity (the extent to which rewards influence decisions). We will also study how stress influences these behaviours in alcohol-dependence. Our assessments will include a number of computerised cognitive tests (similar to popular brain training games) and questionnaires, as well as functional brain imaging (fMRI). All participants will be followed up by monthly telephone interviews for 6 months to ask about any changes in their drinking behaviour.
Study Hypotheses
H1: Alcohol dependent individuals will show less avoidance behaviour than controls under normal/baseline conditions.
H2: Alcohol dependent individuals will show more avoidance following a “stressful” task, indicating a vulnerability to the influence of stress.
H3: Heavy drinking (non-dependent) individuals will show intermediate levels of impulsivity and avoidance that is between those of controls and alcohol dependent participants.
H4: Negative urgency reflects the tenancy to engage in impulsive behaviour to alleviate negative affect (Whiteside et al, 2005). Hence, impulsivity, especially negative urgency (a sub-scale of the UPPS_P Impulsive Behaviour questionnaire), will be positively correlated with avoidance behaviour measures.
H5: Both behavioural and brain measures of craving and cognition will be associated with less favourable follow-up reports (such as increase in alcohol consumption and/or signs of dependence).REC name
North West - Greater Manchester East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/NW/0650
Date of REC Opinion
10 Oct 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion