THURS-078 - Bias and Treatment in Substance Use Disorder: Examining the Role of Framing Effects

Brief Abstract Summary: Examine the framing effects associated with substance use disorder (SUD) and the influence on healthcare providers' interpretations of substances and therapy histories. These effects are crucial for behavioral health professionals, as they can impact clinical judgments and treatment recommendations. Individuals with SUD related to illegal substances are perceived differently than those with alcohol use disorder, a legal and socially accepted condition. This study categorizes framing effects into problem definition, treatment recommendation, and causal interpretation. Providers often attribute alcohol-related issues to genetics and familial background while being less inclined to connect prescribed painkiller addiction to mental illness. These biases highlight the importance of initial impressions in client-provider interactions. Attendees will learn strategies to recognize and mitigate these framing effects to improve treatment outcomes for individuals with SUD.

Detailed abstract description: Discover the impact of framing effects on healthcare providers' interpretations of substance use disorder (SUD) and learn how these effects influence clinical judgments and treatment recommendations. This session is crucial for behavioral health professionals who want to enhance their understanding of biases that may affect patient care. This study explores the framing effects associated with SUD and their influence on healthcare providers' interpretations of various substances and individuals' therapy histories. Participants will examine how perceptions differ between individuals with SUD related to illegal substances, like methamphetamine, and those with alcohol use disorder, a legal substance. The study categorizes framing effects into three key areas: problem definition, treatment recommendation, and causal interpretation. Understanding these categories will enable attendees to identify potential biases in their practice. Key findings reveal that providers often attribute alcohol-related issues to genetics and familial background while being less likely to connect prescribed painkiller addiction to mental illness. These biases underscore the significance of initial impressions in client-provider interactions, particularly in SUD contexts. This research is grounded in an electronic survey conducted among mental and behavioral health professionals in Alabama, where approximately 8% of the population aged 12 and older reported experiencing SUD in the past year. The survey gathered responses from 443 participants presented with vignettes about a character named John, who grapples with substance use issues. The results illustrate how an individual's background can shape healthcare providers’ views on SUD, its causes, and treatment possibilities. By attending, you'll gain actionable strategies to recognize and mitigate these framing effects, ultimately improving treatment outcomes for individuals with SUD. Understanding how framing influences provider perceptions and patient experiences will enhance your clinical effectiveness and promote equitable care. Attendees will leave with the tools to address their biases and provide more effective, empathetic care to those affected by SUD. Moreover, the insights gained from this session will empower participants to advocate for systemic changes in how SUD is approached within their organizations. Understanding the framing effects can lead to improved training for healthcare providers, fostering a more compassionate and informed approach to treatment. This, in turn, can enhance the overall quality of care delivered to individuals with SUD and contribute to a broader cultural shift in the perception of addiction. Join us to equip yourself with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by substance use disorders.