Alcohol and Caffeine

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses a study which posited that reduced intentional control of persons under the influence of alcohol could be counteracted by caffeine or an environmental incentive such as money. The paper discusses the variables and methodology used and summarizes the conclusions drawn from the experiment. The paper provides an analysis of this experiment and shows how the dual nature of the experiment is problematic to some degree. The paper discusses what the experiment should have tested instead.

Outline:
Hypothesis Tested in the Experiment
The Variables
The Methodology and Procedures Used
Conclusions Drawn from the Experiment
Analysis

From the Paper:

"The researchers wondered if the increased chemical stimulation and arousal produced by the pharmacological effect of caffeine or some other environmental reward (such as money) could function to counteract the depressant action of alcohol upon the central nervous system. The researchers believed that caffeine or an external reward could help restore some intentional control of behavior; much in the way some drinkers insist that a cup of coffee has a sobering effect upon their performance behind the wheel of a moving vehicle."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Grattan-Miscio, K. E. & M. Vogel-Sprott. (2005) "Alcohol, Intentional Control, and Inappropriate Behavior: Regulation by Caffeine or an Incentive." Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology. Vol. 13, No. 1, 48-55. Retrieved 21 Nov 2006 at < http://www.apa.org/journals/features/pha13148.pdf>

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MLA Citation: