Knowledge and Preferences of Substance Use Interventions

Thousands of Americans are struggling with substance use disorders (SUDs) and being treated by professional social workers. Social work students should have adequate knowledge of SUDs and the various treatment options. This descriptive study examines 24 randomly selected Master of Social Work students on their knowledge and preference of treatment options including harm reduction and abstinence. Study findings indicate that majority of the students appeared to have adequate knowledge of SUDs although many did not have prior AOD related courses. Respondents preferred a mixed approach that includes both harm reduction and abstinence. Majority of them also support the inclusion of an advanced skills-oriented AOD course as a required MSW course. The researchers, Cindy Escamilla and Shanna Mancera, worked in collaboration to develop and complete this thesis research project.