The purpose of this study is to test the effectiveness of a new online program. The program teaches people why we get attached to possessions and how to break that attachment through a series of brief, animated videos, and via completion of a digital workbook. The course will take approximately six hours to complete. The course is self-paced, but we recommend that it be completed within seven weeks so that people have time to use the skills taught during the course. 

To determine whether the course is effective, participants will complete online assessments at the beginning of the study and again three months later. We will also randomly assign people to receive the course immediately or after a three-month delay. This will allow us to determine whether the course is more effective than not receiving any help.

Participants must be adults residing in Australia, who have regular access to the internet and a computer. Participants must also be fluent in English so that they can understand the assessments and online course. Participants must want to reduce overconsumption, take the assessments seriously, and provide phone and email contact details so that they can be reached throughout the duration of the study.

This study involves a screening survey (approximately 5 minutes in duration) to determine potential eligibility, a baseline survey (approximately 20 minutes in duration), and a follow-up survey (approximately 30 minutes in duration). Participants who complete the follow-up survey truthfully and on time will be paid 50AUD. 

If you have any questions or concerns, or simply would just like to know more about this study, please email breakingup@mq.edu.au.