Executive function and appetitive processes in the self-control of alcohol use: the moderational role of drinking restraint.

BACKGROUND: Dual process models characterize hazardous drinking as a function of appetitive processes and executive processes that enable self-control. Although central to a number of models (e.g., Hofmann et al., 2009a,b), little empirical research has examined how drinking restraint may influence the effects of these processes on alcohol use. The current study examined whether drinking restraint influenced the predictive value of appetitive responses to alcohol cues and executive functioning on typical drinking behavior. It was hypothesized that the interaction between appetitive responses and executive functioning would only be observed among those who had stronger drinking restraint goals. METHODS: Sixty-nine hazardous drinking young adults (ages 21-30) completed the Trail Making Test and then were exposed to the sight and smell of an alcoholic beverage that they anticipated they would consume. Urge and anticipated stimulant effects of alcohol (A-BAES) were measured following the exposure. RESULTS: The interaction between Trails B and each of the appetitive response ratings (i.e., urge rating and A-BAES) was predictive of drinking behavior (TLFB) only among those high in drinking restraint. CONCLUSIONS: These findings highlight the importance of incorporating the role of motivational constructs such as restraint goals in current dual process models of alcohol-related self-control.