Moderation Management


A student evaluation of the Resident Assistants (SERA) survey conducted in the Fall of 2006 shows that 59 % of our on-campus students reported being in situations where they have had to make a decision regarding the use of alcohol. During the 2006-2007 academic year there were 175 judicial affairs cases (charges) involving alcohol violations.

The Personal Counseling staff offer a way for students to learn how to control their drinking through a program called Moderation Management. Moderation Management targets students who suffer one or more problems related to alcohol use. The program is voluntary or may be a sanction for alcohol violations.

  • Moderation Management is an early approach to recovery from self-defeating excessive behaviors
  • Central themes include: balance, moderation, self-control, and responsibility
  • The hard work in moderating is making changes in life habits and accepting responsibility for making those changes

Through counseling, problematic drinking behaviors are explored and new coping mechanisms are developed. Relapse prevention strategies are also discussed.

Here is what some students have said about the program:
“I believe it was a huge success. It helped me in many ways and has gotten me through a rough patch.”

“The Moderation Management program helped me deal with not being allowed to drink and helped me realized some other consequences of my drinking. I enjoyed it.”

“It helped me to see that alcohol is the worst stress reliever. It also showed me how to moderate appropriately to help me succeed in life.”


Web site contact: lak8@psu.edu
Updated August 30, 2007
© 2005 The Pennsylvania State University