Sober October Study

Researchers at the University of Georgia are looking for adults who plan to quit drinking for Sober October to participate in an online research study.

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Fast Facts

Adults Who Drink Alcohol Regularly

Plan to Participate in Sober October

Compensation Provided

Conducted Remotely

Study Background

Help researchers at the University of Georgia understand why people take part in Sober October and its long-term effects.

Many people take part in “Sober October,” a month-long challenge where individuals voluntarily stop drinking alcohol. Researchers are interested in understanding the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that influence participation and success in this kind of alcohol-free challenge and what, if any, are the long-term effects of participation.

If you’re 18 or older, planning to stop drinking for Sober October, and have a history of regular alcohol use, you may be eligible. Your participation can help us learn how people make meaningful changes to their drinking, and you can do it all from home. Over the course of the year, you will complete eight online surveys for up to $240.

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How It Works

Step 1: Complete a short eligibility survey online
Step 2: If eligible, you will be invited to a virtual meeting with the study team
Step 3: During screening, you will be asked to provide a valid U.S. form of identification to confirm eligibility
Step 4: If enrolled, you will complete online surveys throughout the study period

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is this study being done?

This study is being done to better understand how people think, feel, and behave before, during, and after participating in events like Sober October. By learning more about people’s experiences with taking a break from alcohol, researchers hope to find new ways to support individuals who are curious about changing their drinking habits.

Is this study for me?

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:

  • Ages 18+
  • Drink alcohol regularly
  • Plan to participate in Sober October (going alcohol-free for the entire month of October)
  • Speak English
  • Willing to use a smartphone/tablet for the study
  • Have access to a valid U.S. mailing address
What will happen if I participate in the study?

Your participation will be entirely online, no in-person visits are required, and will involve completing 8 electronic surveys throughout the study.

  • A 1-hour survey at the beginning of the study
  • 20 minute-surveys each week during Sober October
  • A 1-hour follow-up survey 3 months later
  • A 1-hour follow-up survey 6 months later
  • A final 1-hour survey 12 months later

Will I be paid for being in this research study?

You can earn up to $240 in total. Payment will be provided as electronic gift cards.

  • Baseline Survey (1 hour): $30
  • Weekly Surveys (20 min each): $15 each
  • Completion Bonus (all weekly surveys): $25
  • 3-Month Follow-Up Survey (1 hour): $35
  • 6-Month Follow-Up Survey (1 hour): $40
  • 12-Month Follow-Up Survey (1 hour): $50