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A Protocol for Measuring Cue Reactivity in a Rat Model of Cocaine Use Disorder
Published on: June 18, 2018
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Decision-making style, nicotine and caffeine use and dependence
James G Phillips1, Rowan P Ogeil2
1Psychology Department, Auckland University of Technology, Akoranga Campus, Auckland, New Zealand.
Human Psychopharmacology
|July 16, 2015
Summary
Individuals with high decisional self-esteem, linked to stimulant and caffeine dependence, were less likely to seek online information. Confidence, not avoidance, influenced reduced internet information-seeking behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Digital Health
Background:
- Therapeutic interventions increasingly utilize telehealth and mobile phones.
- Understanding substance-dependent individuals' responses to online assistance is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between decision-making style and stimulant (nicotine, caffeine) use/dependence.
- To investigate how decision-making influences behavioral responses to electronic information offers.
Main Methods:
- An online survey assessed nicotine and caffeine use, dependence severity, decision-making style, and psychological distress.
- 181 participants completed validated scales (Severity of Dependence Scales, Melbourne Decision Making Questionnaire, Kessler Distress Scale).
- Participants were subsequently offered online information about stimulant drugs.
Main Results:
- Stimulant dependence correlated with psychological distress.
- Caffeine dependence was associated with hypervigilance.
- Decisional self-esteem varied with stimulant dependence and distress levels.
- Individuals with high decisional self-esteem declined online information offers.
Conclusions:
- Confidence, rather than defensive avoidance, was a key factor in reduced online information-seeking behaviors.
- Findings have implications for designing online interventions for substance dependence.
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