In this presentation, Dr. Leeman will discuss ways in which technology, particularly smartphone-related technology, can be used to benefit addiction assessment and intervention. Advantages to the use of technology include the ability to assess and deliver intervention material in the moment. Assessment in the moment can reduce recall bias and facilitate objective assessment to complement self-reports. With the help of technology, intervention material can be provided when and where people need it, including when they are attempting to avoid or limit their substance use. Much more research must be done to leverage the potential of technology. Therefore, we will also discuss several important principles in this research including keeping instructions to participants as simple and engaging as possible, involving members of the community in the development and/or evaluation of technology-based tools, being mindful of equity issues and the importance of assessing the user’s experience, including both acceptability (i.e., perceived value of the technology) and usability (i.e., ease of use), preferably using quantitative and qualitative methods. Dr. Leeman will use examples from his own and others’ research to illustrate these points.
Objectives
Examine ways in which technology-based tools can benefit assessment of addictive behaviors
Examine ways in which technology-based tools can benefit intervention to help users avoid or reduce addictive behaviors
Discuss important principles when conducting research on technology-based tools
Define and detail ways to assess the acceptability and usability of technology-based tools.
