Moving alcohol prevention research forward—Part I: introducing a complex systems paradigm

Abstract

A complex systems paradigm for research into alcohol misuse can provide a holistic understanding of the underlying drinking environment and its long-term trajectory, which can elucidate high-leverage preventive interventions.

Moving alcohol prevention research forward—Part II: new directions grounded in community‐based system dynamics modeling

“…To generate breakthroughs in alcohol prevention, a paradigm shift is necessary . In particular, holistic approaches grounded in complex systems perspectives are warranted .…”

“…Embracing complex systems perspectives will provide greater understanding of the factors contributing to alcohol misuse, and consequently equip alcohol prevention research and interventions more effectively. A complex systems paradigm, which conceptualizes alcohol misuse as a complex adaptive system and allows for the application of computational modeling methodologies, has the potential to lead to scientific and practical breakthroughs . Unfortunately, complex systems approaches are underutilized and often poorly understood in alcohol prevention research.…”

A complex‐systems paradigm can lead to evidence‐based policymaking and impactful action in substance misuse prevention—a rejoinder to Purshouse et al. (2018)

“…We recently advocated for a paradigm shift in alcohol prevention research grounded in complex systems and dynamic modeling methodologies . In response, Purshouse and colleagues acknowledged that complex simulation modeling holds promise, and echoed our call for its application while emphasizing the importance of methodological care to ensure that such initiatives are useful.…”

“…Empirical observations suggest that the prevailing paradigm in alcohol prevention offers an incomplete representation of how alcohol misuse develops over time and leads ultimately to inconsequential population‐level interventions . Thus, traditional research and prevention approaches are not designed to capture the complex nature of alcohol misuse.…”

“…Thus, traditional research and prevention approaches are not designed to capture the complex nature of alcohol misuse. As a complex system, alcohol misuse is: determined by interconnected, heterogeneous, self‐organizing and evolving subsystems ; marked by dynamic complexity, non‐linear feedbacks, phase transitions and emergence across temporal scales ; defined by the presence of mutual and adversely reinforcing risks ; and exacerbated by risk disparities associated with social, economic and geographic milieux in which populations at‐risk are immersed . As with other complex systems , alcohol misuse is particularly difficult to control because it often switches from manageable to uncontrollable or irreversible states .…”