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Table of Contents
Description
The Drugs Decisional Balance Scales is an inventory designed to evaluate an individual’s perceptions regarding the pros and cons of drug use. This tool helps to assess the conflicting feelings and beliefs one might have about their drug use behaviors, guiding individuals in their decision-making processes about substance use. The scales emphasize self-reflection on factors influencing drug use, including personal relationships, self-image, and social dynamics. By quantifying these insights, the scale aims to support individuals in identifying areas for potential change and to enhance their understanding of the consequences of their substance use.
Authors and Contact Email
Information not available.
Purpose
The purpose of the Drugs Decisional Balance Scales is to help individuals weigh the perceived advantages and disadvantages of their drug use. This assessment can facilitate discussions about change and enhance awareness around the impact of substance use, ultimately leading to more informed personal choices.
Test Year
Information not available.
Administration Method and Scoring
The scales can be self-administered, and individuals rate the importance of each item on a scale from 1 (Not important at all) to 5 (Extremely important). The items are divided into pros and cons of drug use, allowing for a balanced assessment of the individual’s stance toward their drug use behaviors.
Reliability and Validity
Information not available.
Factors and Subscales
The Drugs Decisional Balance Scales include the following items categorized as pros and cons of drug use:
- Pros of Using Drugs: 2, 4, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 17, 19, 20
- Cons of Using Drugs: 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 18
Keywords
Decision making, substance use, drugs, pros and cons, decisional balance, self-assessment.
Items of the Drugs Decisional Balance Scales
- 1. My drug use causes problems with others.
- 2. I like myself better when I use drugs.
- 3. Because I continue to use drugs, some people think I lack the character to quit.
- 4. Using drugs helps me deal with problems.
- 5. Having to lie to others about my drug use bothers me.
- 6. Some people try to avoid me when I use drugs.
- 7. Using drugs helps me to have fun and socialize.
- 8. Using drugs interferes with my functioning at home or/and at work.
- 9. Using drugs makes me more of a fun person.
- 10. Some people close to me are disappointed in me because of my drug use.
- 11. Using drugs helps me to loosen up and express myself.
- 12. I seem to get myself into trouble when I use drugs.
- 13. I could accidentally hurt someone because of my drug use.
- 14. Not using drugs at a social gathering would make me feel too different.
- 15. I am losing the trust and respect of my coworkers and/or spouse because of my drug use.
- 16. My drug use helps give me energy and keeps me going.
- 17. I am more sure of myself when I am using drugs.
- 18. I am setting a bad example for others with my drug use.
- 19. Without drugs, my life would be dull and boring.
- 20. People seem to like me better when I use drugs.
References
This instrument can be found at: http://habitslab.umbc.edu/decisional-balance-scales/ and http://www.addictioninfo.org/
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