Applying the Relapse Model to Harm Reduction: The Development and Evaluation of the Harm Reduction Self-Efficacy Questionnaire
Year: 2005
Type: article
Abstract: My study was designed to develop and evaluate a measure to assess harm reduction selfefficacy in intravenous (IV) opiate users.Using Marlatt and Gordon's (1985) Cognitive Behavioral Model of Relapse, I developed the Harm Reduction Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (HRSEQ) to examine drug users' perceived confidence in their ability to utilize specific harm reduction strategies in select high-risk situations.The study consisted of two major phases: 1) instrument development using focus groups of drug-takers and expert feedback and 2) experimental study of the influence of type of high-risk situation on self-efficacy to use harm reduction coping skills using a different sample of active or recently active drug users.In addition, I examined the reliability and construct/discriminant validity of the HRSEQ measure.After the HRSEQ was designed, I administered it along with other drug use measures, to 101 IV opiate users.Results indicated that harm reduction self-efficacy varied as predicted depending on type of high-risk situation.The HRSEQ demonstrated high internal consistency and was reliable across a one-week time period.The three HRSEQ scales were significantly associated (at a moderate to strong level) with the Harm Reduction Use Measure (HRUM), a scale that assessed use of harm reduction coping behaviors, thus providing support for construct validity.In addition, weak correlations and lack of associations between the HRSEQ scales and measures examining health self-efficacy, exercise self-efficacy, and self-efficacy to resist heavy drug use provided support for the discriminant validity of the HRSEQ.After further development, the HRSEQ could be a useful tool to gain a better understanding of clients' confidence to utilize harm reduction interventions that will improve their health and well-being.Many of my friends from Bowling Green also provided support while completing my dissertation.My close group of friends, including Purvi Shah, Nicole Sirrine, Jeff Vanderploeg, Gene Ano, Ryan Mears, and Shahnaz Aziz, were always willing to listen to my problems and offer great advice.All of the "Peeps" have made this experience manageable!They also made my graduate school experience much more enjoyable.Finally, all of my family members were patient and supportive.They were always there to listen and encourage me to finish my degree.Despite the long distance, they always asked about my progress and listened to my frustration.I am very grateful for their endless support.I would like to say a special thanks to my parents for always believing in me.
Author: Kristina T. Phillips
Institution: Bowling Green State University
Language: English
Topic: HIV, Drug Use, Sexual Risk
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W361582776