Methylphenidate and Response to Alcohol Cues

The purpose of this study is to determine whether changes in attention levels related to taking a single dose of a medication called methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin, affects responses to alcohol cues. The study will observe the effects of methylphenidate or a placebo on neural and craving responses to alcohol cues through fMRI and behavioral testing. Participants will be involved in one remote and two in-person sessions.

Inclusion Criteria: * Adults ages 18-25 years * Meets DSM-5 criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder -OR- score on the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) of \>=8 * Fluent in English * Normal or corrected to normal vision Exclusion Criteria: * Meets DSM-5 criteria for psychotic disorders, neurological disorders, or substance use disorders other than Alcohol Use Disorder. * Participant routinely uses psychoactive drugs or medications except for non-dependent marijuana or nicotine use (due to common use of these substances in individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder). * Participant has contraindications for taking methylphenidate. * Participant has contraindications for being in an MRI machine * Self-reported history of high blood pressure over 140/90 or consistent readings of 140/90 or above upon arrival for a session. * History of seizure disorder * Liver disease * Participant is currently pregnant or trying to become pregnant