Characteristics of mobile-based brief interventions targeting substance use among youth: a rapid review.

Substance use remains an important contributor to morbidity and mortality among youth. Mobile-based brief interventions (MBBIs) can leverage technology to deliver interventions aimed at preventing substance use among youth. We conducted a rapid review to examine the characteristics of MBBIs delivered via mobile technologies that have been developed to target substance use among youth (ages 15 to 24). We aimed to synthesize (a) technology types, (b) theoretical underpinnings, and (c) outcome measures and findings. Eighteen articles met inclusion criteria. Text messaging was the most reported technology type (n = 11), followed by smartphone accessible web-based applications (n= 5), a smartphone only application (n= 1), and a study reporting both types of applications (n= 1). Motivational interviewing (n= 13) and the FRAMES model for brief interventions's (n= 7; feedback, responsibility, advice, menu of options, empathy, and self-efficacy) were the most common theories used. Almost all studies (n= 15) focused on alcohol-use only outcomes, with results demonstrating mixed support on the efficacy. Our findings offer a better understanding on the characteristics of existing MBBIs targeting substance use among youth. Future research is warranted, including a greater emphasis on sex and gender considerations and research on interventions targeting substances aside from alcohol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]