Date of Award

2020

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Psychology

Abstract

Substance use and abuse is a widespread issue and has resulted in the need for professionals to research and develop prevention efforts and interventions from a community based, public health approach. Those who are providing addictions related training in these settings often have limited time and resources with which to provide efficient and effective training. Information related to the impact of training with specific disciplines, such as social work, nursing, and physician assistant, is also needed in order to more effectively alter the approach based on those receiving the training. The purpose of this study was to evaluate factors that may impact the effectiveness of training provided at a local university with future health care professionals related to alcohol and Substance Use Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT). The effectiveness of training was evaluated using student self-reported changes in attitudes and beliefs prior to and after SBIRT training and also examined factors including length of training, student discipline, and format of training (face-to-face and distance). This quasi-experimental, quantitative study used a variety of methods of statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics and ANOVA, to examine student self-reported answers in pre and post-surveys after participating in SBIRT training. Specifically, the study focused on five constructs (dependent variables) identified in the surveys used, including: stated likelihood of screening and brief intervention practice; competency; perceived role legitimacy; skepticism of behavioral health care; and time utilization and compensation. Evaluation of these constructs were compared to the following independent variables: length of training; training by discipline; and format of training. Results indicated that student perceived competence improved significantly immediately post-training, while perceived role legitimacy and stated likelihood of SBI practice had some small, significant change. Student perceptions surrounding time utilization and compensation declined post-training. Furthermore, there was no significant difference when considering format of training and training by discipline.

Share

COinS