Seminar on Addictive Disorders: An Exploration of Students' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behavior

ABSTRACT

A module-based training on addictive disorders was implemented with 46 foundation- and 78 advanced-year students. Pre-test-posttest results indicated that foundation-year students increased their knowledge of theories of addiction (p < .05). Foundation- and advanced-year students increased their knowledge of treatment approaches (p < .01). Using an instrument developed by the authors, both foundation- and advanced-year students reported positive attitudes and behaviors toward persons with substance abuse disorders. Advanced-year students reported increased confidence in their skills (p < .05) over time. They also reported that, to a significantly greater degree, they were able to rule out substance abuse among clients (p < .05) and to make appropriate referrals (p < .05) over time. These findings are inconsistent with an existing body of research demonstrating negative student attitudes and indifference toward clients with alcohol problems.

KEYWORDS:

• Addictive disorder training
• social work education
• chemical dependency education
• substance abuse
• social work students
• students' attitudes