Can stand-alone computer-based interventions reduce alcohol consumption? A systematic review.

Summary: Can a computer program help you cut back on drinking? A review of 24 studies looked at whether digital tools work better than just being assessed or doing nothing. At first glance, the results looked promising: people using these programs seemed to drink less per week. However, the researchers found a math problem—many studies used "averages" on data that was lopsided (skewed), which can distort the truth. When they corrected for this in studies involving students, the benefits disappeared. The verdict? Computer tools might help, but the science is currently too shaky to say for sure.