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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Timothy Johnson, PhD, Survey Research Laboratory, University of Illinois-Chicago, 629 Cuppa Hall, 412 S. Peoria, Chicago, IL 60607, 312-996-5310, timj@uic.edu and Michael Fendrich, PhD, Center for Addiction & Behavioral Health Research, University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee, Endiris Hall, Room 1191, P.O. Box 786, Milwaukee, WI 53201.

In recent years, audio computer-assisted self-interviews (ACASI) have been demonstrated to increase, and presumably improve, the quality of drug reporting in epidemiologic research. Surprisingly little research is available, however, regarding the potential limitations of this technique. For example, it is unclear what effects computer literacy may have on the validity of substance use information collected via ACASI. Persons with limited computer skills may become distracted by the automated technology, requiring the devotion of considerable cognitive effort to the navigation of unfamiliar computer equipment and software that would otherwise be available for use in more carefully answering survey questions. In this study, we report findings from a community ACASI survey conducted in Chicago, Illinois that directly addresses this problem. Using indicators of computer literacy and biological assays, the validity of self-reported past 30-day cocaine use was investigated. Concordance rates for self-reported cocaine use were 98.6% among respondents (n=219) reporting a working home computer, compared to 89.2% among persons (n=231) without a working home computer (Chi-square=17.2, df=1, p < .001). A logistic regression model was employed to evaluate the effects of computer literacy on drug use reporting validity, while controlling for potential confounders, including education, age, gender, race/ethnicity and socially desirable reporting (via the Crowne-Marlowe scale). The effects of computer ownership on concordant reporting remained significant in this model (OR=4.92, CI=1.36-17.84). The main learning objective is to develop audience understanding of the limitations of epidemiological surveys of drug use behaviors.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Identify the limitations of using computer-assisted survey technology for the collection of substance use information in epidemiological surveys.
• Understand the critical role of computer literacy in obtaining quality information during survey interviews.

Keywords: Substance Abuse Assessment, Computer-Assisted

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered