Measures of implicit cognitive processes have emerged as reliable predictors of problematic drinking, even after controlling for established, validated self-report measures. However, consideration of implicit cognitions about the self in relation to drinking and alcohol (i.e., drinking identity) has been overlooked. Given the importance of the self in self-regulation, motivation and behavior, this gap is problematic.

Kristen Lindgren, PhD, will highlight her work on implicit cognition and identity establishing drinking identity as a novel, robust, risk factor for hazardous drinking. She will discuss the theoretical and clinical implications of her work and provide a brief overview of a recently launched clinical trial that seeks to modify drinking identity.

Dr. Lindgren is a clinical psychologist whose research lies at the intersection of cognitive science and psychopathology, especially in the domains of hazardous drinking and post traumatic stress disorder. Her primary areas of expertise include implicit cognitive processes (i.e., processes that are relatively fast and spontaneous) and identity and how they relate to psychopathology.