Using Digital Technology for At-Risk youth

Drug and alcohol use are consistently associated with the occurrence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV. Despite this link, interventions designed to reduce substance use are rarely implemented in clinical settings where the prevalence of STDs and HIV is high (e.g., STD clinics). Brief interventions have proven effective in reducing hazardous drinking and drug use; however they are rarely integrated into clinical practice due to barriers at individual and organizational levels. We proposed that the ideal intervention should incorporate the successful components of brief motivational interviewing and should make use of interactive digital media and game features to enhance interest and acceptability, and should be easily adaptable within clinical settings.