Madhabika Nayak, PhD
Madhabika B. Nayak, PhD, has been an associate scientist at the Alcohol Research Group (ARG) since 2002. She has broad experience in women's health issues. Nayak's research focuses on alcohol use patterns and problems among women of childbearing age, including the impact of their partner's drinking. Her studies have examined alcohol use, victimization by interpersonal violence, and mental health, in epidemiological data and treatment settings. She has significant experience working internationally, particularly in India.
Nayak is part of a key group of ARG scientists working on its National Alcohol Survey and methodological studies. Previously, she served as consultant to the International Center for Research on Women for their studies on spousal violence in India, and the International Society of Traumatic Stress Studies as an invited program deputy for their annual conferences.
Nayak has a doctorate in clinical psychology from Northern Illinois University. She completed specialized clinical and research training in traumatic stress at the National Crime Victim's Research and Treatment Center (Medical University of South Carolina, 1993 to 1996) and a National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism postdoctoral fellowship in alcohol studies at ARG in 2004. She is a licensed clinical psychologist.
Epidemiology of Alcohol Problems Study
The specific aims of this study, funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcholism, are to: 1) conduct innovative research in alcohol epidemiology in the general population and subgroups; 2) examine societal responses to alcohol problems; 3) improve alcohol consumption measurement and environmental assessment; 4) build biostatistical capacity, partner with other organizations and offer multidisciplinary research training; and 5) disseminate findings.
Kiosk-based Prenatal Screening and Intervention for Nutrition and Drinking (Pilot)
This two-year pilot study will develop, implement and evaluate a computerized, self-administered alcohol and nutrition screener and intervention for pregnant women in a public health clinic setting.
Methodological Studies: Study 3
This study examines the item functioning of a widely used alcohol use disorder screening test, the AUDIT in a large cross-national dataset including the US so as to offer improved alcohol screening and measurement guidelines both globally and in the U.S.
Pilot Studies: Pilot 1: A clinician-free, computer-based screening and intervention for consumption of alcohol & sweetened beverages during pregnancy
This pilot involves creating and testing a user friendly intervention kiosk placed in a WIC clinic to accurately assess intake of consumption of alcohol and sweetened beverages during pregnancy and provide related feedback to the clients.