What is this study about?
The ASCEND in Project ASCEND stands for A Study of Career Entry and Network Development where we will examine the association between social networks and health behaviors among young adults starting new jobs.
Who will be in the study?
We are looking for young adults (ages 18-25) entering occupations in fields such as construction and extraction; installation, maintenance and repair; food preparation and serving related; transportation and material-moving, or sales and related occupations. Eligible participants must have accepted a job in one of these categories but have not yet started and plan to work at least 8 hours per week.
What do I have to do?
Participation over the two-year period will involve:
- Completing seven 1-hour surveys.
- Taking part in brief (~10 minute) daily diary assessments for one week at a time during five separate intervals.
How long will this study take?
This study lasts for 2 years. The 7 assessments will be conducted before you start at your new job and 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after you started the job. You will also attend a 30-minute Zoom baseline orientation. Daily diary surveys will occur for a total of 5 weeks and will begin one day after each of the follow-up surveys. These diary assessments are meant to take 10 minutes each day.
Will I be paid?
Yes, you will be compensated for each portion of the study that you complete (baseline, orientation, follow-up surveys, and weekly diaries), and you have the opportunity to receive bonuses. You can earn up to $580 after completing the study. You will receive your payment through either an Amazon gift card or through Zelle. See the compensation page for more information.
Can I stay in the study even if I have already left one of the focused occupations of the study?
Yes, we want you to stay in the study for the entire two years!
Do I have to drink to join the study?
No! You do not have to drink to participate in this study. We welcome all eligible participants.
What if I want to stop?
You do not have to be in this study if you do not want to be. Even if you decide to be in this study, you can change your mind and stop at any time. If you do not participate or if you leave the study, your current or future relationship with Brown University and the faculty members involved in this research will not be affected.
I am traveling over the next 2 years, can I participate?
Yes! Please just let us know how long you will be gone and we will adjust when you receive the surveys. We will be in contact about the follow-up surveys.