Social Smoking Moods and Behaviors Study

This study examines the effects of common substances like alcohol, stimulants, and sedatives on the moods and smoking behaviors of social smokers. To make sure that all applicants meet the basic qualifications, we ask that all candidates complete a brief online survey as well as an in-person screening at our lab. After being selected for the study, participants will complete 2 experimental sessions, with each lasting between 4 and 4.5 hours. During each experimental session, participants may consume alcohol, a stimulant, a sedative, a placebo (nothing) or a combination of these substances. They will then answer questionnaires about their moods and behaviors, provide breath and saliva samples, and may be asked to smoke cigarettes, which may contain various amounts of nicotine.

Qualifications

To be eligible for the study, you must:

Be between the ages of 21 and 35.
Weigh between 110-210 pounds.
Smoke at least once a week but less than 50 cigarettes per week.
Drink alcohol at least once a week.
Complete 2 experimental sessions starting between 2pm and 5pm.
Not be nursing or pregnant, if female.

Screening

To make sure that all participants meet the basic requirements for participation, applicants will take part in an in-person screening, which will last between 2 and 2.5 hours. During this screening, applicants will:

Complete questionnaires about health history, general background, and smoking and substance use patterns.
Undergo a brief physical exam by a physician.
Provide a urine and blood sample.

While we do not pay you for your time at this screening, we do provide CTA and parking passes for your transportation needs.

Experimental Sessions

This study consists of 2 experimental sessions, beginning any time between 2pm and 5pm. Each session will last between 4 and 4.5 hours and take place in our lab at the University of Chicago. During each session, participants will:

Consume a snack consisting of mandarin orange slices, Goldfish crackers, Hershey Kisses, and lemon-lime soda. (Special accommodations due to dietary restrictions can be arranged.)
Consume a beverage (volume determined by body weight) and a pill, each of which may contain alcohol, a stimulant, a sedative, or a placebo.
Possibly be asked to smoke puffs of one or several cigarettes containing various amounts of nicotine.
Complete various questionnaires.
Watch TV or request a movie from our extensive list during portions of the session when measures are not being taken. Participants may bring reading material as well, though we ask that the time not be used for studying.

For each session, participants will have the option of arranging their own ride home, for which an extra $15 will be given for the session, or receiving a ride home from a licensed car service, at our expense.

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Study Overview

Qualifications

Screening

Experimental Sessions

Links