NCJ Number
112418
Journal
The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease Volume: 175 Issue: 11 Dated: (1987) Pages: 653-660
Date Published
1987
Length
8 pages
Annotation
In an effort to isolate the major dimensions of attitude and expectation regarding narcotic addiction and its treatment, and to compare different groups of addict/clients and agency staff on these factors, a comprehensive questionnaire was administered to 900 addict/clients and 237 agency personnel in 25 drug treatment clinics in 6 states.
Abstract
Results of a factor analysis, which used questionnaire data from all of the 1,137 subjects so that direct group comparisons could be made, indicated the presence of 10 major dimesions of attitude and expectation. Results also suggested considerable variation, particularly by status (client vs. staff) and ethnic group, on these dimensions. An additional analysis of staff attitudes and expectations revealed correlations with years of education, ex-addict status, and years of work experience. Such findings suggest the need to consider client/staff characteristics and attitudes in the planning of treatment services for narcotic addicts. An abbreviated (53-item) attitude and expectation questionnaire was developed for this purpose. (Publisher abstract)