Improving Relationship Conflict Responses in Substance Use Treatment
Author Information
Author(s): Gery C. Karantzas, Petra K. Staiger, Daniel A. Romano, Ashlee Curtis, Courtney Bruscella, Peter G. Miller, Stefan Gruenert, John W. Toumbourou, Brian D. Doss, Andrews Christensen
Primary Institution: Deakin University
Hypothesis
Participation in the OR program would be associated with decreases in destructive responses and increases in constructive responses in hypothetical situations of relationship conflict.
Conclusion
The study provides preliminary evidence that the group version of the OurRelationship program can improve responses to relationship conflict among individuals in substance use treatment.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants reported reductions in destructive responses and increases in constructive responses after the program.
- Residents experienced lower levels of anger and anxiety in response to relationship conflict scenarios post-program.
- The program was adapted to be delivered in a group format to enhance learning through discussion.
- Participants focused on past significant relationships due to the high percentage not currently in a relationship.
Takeaway
This study shows that a special program can help people in treatment for substance use to handle relationship problems better.
Methodology
Residents participated in a group-based version of the OurRelationship program over 4 weeks, completing assessments before and after the program.
Potential Biases
Social desirability effects may have influenced participants' responses.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported responses to imagined scenarios and lacked a control group.
Participant Demographics
Participants were 61% cisgender males, 40% cisgender females, and 1% non-binary, aged 21-62 years, with 86% of Anglo Saxon/European background.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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