A Web-Based Resource Informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Positive Psychology to Address Stress, Negative Affect, and Problematic Alcohol Use: A Usability and Descriptive Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Research documents that drinking to cope behavior can be disrupted by enhancing emotion regulation and coping skills related to the experience of stress and negative affect. The Alpha Element Self-Coaching Plan incorporates principles of positive psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy to redirect negative thinking and emotions and, therefore, has the potential to benefit individuals who use alcohol to cope with stress. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate satisfaction and usability of the online Alpha Element Self-Coaching Plan in order to inform the development of an expanded digital platform based on the Alpha Element framework. METHODS: Participants enrolled in the online program as part of their clinical care were eligible to participate. Twenty individuals (14 women, 6 men) between ages 30-79 (mean 54.5; SD=14.14) completed online questionnaires to assess product performance in areas such as ease of technology use, quality of videos and handouts, and the value of the activities. Participants also completed the System Usability Scale (SUS) and background and demographic information, including alcohol use. RESULTS: Only one participant reported no alcohol use in the past year; 55% (n=11) of participants drank alcohol 2-4 times/month or less and 45% (n=9) reported drinking alcohol 2-3 times/week or more. The average SUS score of 76.38 (SD=17.85) is well above the commonly accepted threshold of 68, indicating high system usability. A majority of the sample (n=16;84%) agreed or strongly agreed that the activities in the program inspired behavioral changes; and most agreed or strongly agreed that the program was engaging (n=16;80%), well-organized (n=18;90%), and easy to follow (n=17;85%). Only two participants endorsed experiencing difficulty using the program on a smartphone. Suggestions for program improvements included expanding the platform, updating the web format, adding user interactivity, and enhancing navigation. CONCLUSIONS: These data suggest that participants were generally satisfied with the online Alpha Element Self-Coaching Plan, and rated usability of the program as favorable. Importantly, a significant portion of participants reported that the program inspired behavioral changes. More research is needed with a larger sample to obtain specific data about alcohol consumption and investigate associations between alcohol use and program components, as well as examine gender differences. Data collected from this study will be used to expand the platform and improve user experience.

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