Computer-delivered interventions for alcohol and tobacco use: a meta-analysis.
OBJECTIVE
To quantify the overall effectiveness of computer-delivered interventions for alcohol and tobacco use.


METHODS
Meta-analysis of 42 effect sizes from randomized controlled trials, based on the responses of 10 632 individuals.


RESULTS
The weighted average effect size (d) was 0.20, P < 0.001. While lower effect sizes were associated with studies addressing tobacco use (d = 0.14) this may well reflect differences in the types of outcome measure used. Effect sizes did not vary significantly as a function of treatment location, inclusion of entertaining elements, provision of normative feedback, availability of a discussion feature, number of treatment sessions, emphasis on relapse prevention, level of therapist involvement or follow-up period.


CONCLUSIONS
Findings of the meta-analysis suggest that minimal contact computer-delivered treatments that can be accessed via the internet may represent a cost-effective means of treating uncomplicated substance use and related problems.
National Cannabis Prevention and Information Centre, University of New South Wales, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia. s.rooke@unsw.edu.au
Sally
S
Rooke
Einar
E
Thorsteinsson
Anne
A
Karpin
Jan
J
Copeland
David
D
Allsop
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D019973:Alcohol-Related Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods; D016001:Confidence Intervals; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D015397:Program Evaluation; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D055502:Secondary Prevention; D012907:Smoking / Q000523:psychology; D000074606:Smoking Prevention; D013813:Therapy, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult