Refining a Novel Measure of Polysubstance Use: Applying the Cognitive Interview Method with People Who Use Drugs

Cognitive interviewing is a methodological technique to elicit feedback on item comprehension and response categories by the target population. This method can be particularly relevant when working with vulnerable populations, such as people who use drugs, and for complex behaviors, including the use of multiple drugs (i.e., polysubstance use). While cognitive interviewing is recognized as an important technique, few case studies of the method have been published.

The current manuscript details the cognitive interview method employed as part of the development of a novel polysubstance assessment tool.

Participants (n=28) with recent polysubstance use provided qualitative feedback using an iterative study design. Results detail the decision-making process of the study team to improve comprehension of complex behaviors, specifically simultaneous and same-day polysubstance use. Notably, the administration modality changed from self to interviewer-administered to facilitate participant understanding.

Findings highlight the utility of the cognitive interview method in improving assessments of substance use.