Can a computer prompt curb teen drinking? new study tests digital nudge in doctor's office

NCT ID NCT04450966

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This completed trial tested a computer-based system (cSBI) that helps pediatricians screen and counsel teens aged 14-17 about alcohol use and driving risks. The system includes a self-administered questionnaire, educational content, and a report for the doctor to guide a brief counseling session. The study enrolled 169 teens across multiple U.S. primary care practices to see if this approach reduces heavy drinking and risky driving behaviors.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Computer-facilitated screening and brief intervention (cSBI) - a behavioral tool

What this could lead to

If effective, this approach could give pediatricians a practical, scalable way to reduce heavy drinking and risky driving among teens.

What could go wrong

This is a completed trial, but results are not yet widely implemented. The tool's success depends on clinician adoption and may not work in all practice settings.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Driving Under the Influence

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • American Academy of Pediatrics

    Itasca, Illinois, 60143, United States

  • Boston Children's Hospital

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States

  • Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States