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Methodological issues in workplace substance abuse prevention research
R K Hersch1, R F Cook, D K Deitz
1ISA Associates, Inc., Alexandria, VA 22314, USA. rhersch@isagroup.com
Summary
Workplace substance abuse prevention research faces challenges in reaching employees, addressing employer concerns, and collecting data. This study uses real-world examples to explore these methodological hurdles.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Substance abuse in working adults incurs significant healthcare costs and financial losses.
- Effective workplace substance abuse prevention programs are crucial but challenging to implement and research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and discuss methodological challenges in applied workplace substance abuse prevention research.
- To provide practical insights using examples from an ongoing prevention program evaluation.
Main Methods:
- The study highlights challenges including broad audience reach, employer concerns, and data collection.
- Specific data challenges involve collecting substance use data, accessing records, and linking diverse data sources.
- Examples are drawn from research funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Substance Abuse Prevention.
Main Results:
- The research identifies key obstacles in conducting effective workplace substance abuse prevention studies.
- Practical strategies for overcoming these methodological barriers are discussed.
Conclusions:
- Addressing these methodological challenges is essential for advancing effective workplace substance abuse prevention.
- Further research and program development require careful consideration of these practical research limitations.