Previous studies of group-based motivational interventions suggest that there may be underlying problems with such interventions. Walters et al. concluded that bringing a group of heavy-drinking college students together reinforced inaccurate perceptions of drinking norms. More research is clearly necessary to identify the factors at work in such interventions. Motivational interventions typically provide students with information about self-reported drinking patterns, alcohol-related consequences, and risk-reduction strategies. In order to qualify for the current study the students had to be at least 18 years old and had to have consumed alcohol on a minimum of three occasions during the past 30 days. The intervention content was the same for both the EGMI (n=27) and the SGMI (n=25) groups. Part one of the intervention addressed personal and normative rates of alcohol use, quantity of alcohol use, binge drinking, and blood alcohol levels. The second part of the intervention focused on the benefits and consequences of using alcohol. Methods for minimizing alcohol-related harm were discussed in the final part of the intervention. The EGMI differed from the SGMI in engaging in discussions of the counterproductive dynamics of groups, and the facilitator also called on participants to contribute when the group appeared unresponsive during the intervention. In the SGMI group, no special attempt was made to neutralize counterproductive group processes during the intervention. Participants in the no-intervention control condition (n=23) answered questions about body image but did not engage in any discussion of drinking. The participants in the two intervention groups reported disruptive group dynamics in the form of low elaboration likelihood, production blocking, and social loafing; however, the level of disturbance was significantly lower for EGMI participants. Despite counteracting group dynamics in the EGMI condition, participants in the two interventions were statistically similar in post-intervention problem recognition and future drinking intentions. The findings suggest that it may not be effective to have individually based interventions in group settings without first making adjustments to them. More intensive and more effective strategies for counteracting disruptive group processes may be required to achieve a better outcome. 2 tables and 37 references