Ecological mechanisms for Alcohol Use Disorder recovery in workplace contexts - Broad/Long Term Objectives: Predominant models of AUD recovery emphasize the impact of contextual factors on proximal determinants influencing recovery maintenance, such as craving. Prior findings suggest that particular workplace characteristics determine the impact of work context on recovery. Previous research has suggested that various factors sustain or undermine workplace substance use, however, the effect of these factors on recovery outcomes has not been tested. The goal of the proposed project is to validate workplace factors influencing AUD recovery in the context of existing models of recovery and addiction, laying the groundwork for future evidence-based interventions to support individuals in AUD recovery at work. Specific Aims: The aims of this project include validating the effects of workplace factors on alcohol consumption and consequences (Aim 1) and mechanisms of behavior change (MOBC) in recovery (Aim 2), including an established physiological MOBC (Aim 2A). Training aims include training in the design, execution, and analysis of intensive longitudinal studies of alcohol use and related problems, the application of vocational psychology to AUD recovery research, and research on ambulatory cardiovascular data. Research Design/Methods: A sample of 150 participants attempting to initiate recovery will be recruited to participate in a 14-day ecological momentary assessment (EMA) study of the impact of workplace factors on alcohol consumption, consequences of consumption and abstinence, and mechanisms of recovery. Significance: People in recovery from alcohol use disorder (AUD) face barriers to employment, and programs to support people in recovery from alcohol and other substance-related problems have recently proliferated. This study would be the first to validate the effect of a number of workplace factors on recovery-related outcomes (e.g., alcohol consumption, craving) in a relevant sample. Training Plan and Environment: The University of Missouri is home to a premier addictions research group and institutional training grant (T32AA013526; PI: McCarthy [referee] & Sher). The mentorship team for this award includes widely recognized experts in ecological momentary assessment, alcohol use, daily-life cardiovascular data collection (Sean P. Lane [sponsor] and Timothy J. Trull [co-sponsor]), AUD recovery (Katie Witkiewitz [consultant]), and vocational psychology (Lisa Y. Flores [consultant]). The training plan is multifaceted and includes regular mentorship, coursework, and conference and workshop attendance. Furthermore, Dr. Lane [sponsor] has committed to funding the entirety of the research and training plan.
