The Effect of an Educational Intervention Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior on Preventing Drug Relapse Among Men with Substance Use Disorder.

Abstract

Background: Drug abuse has severe physical and psychological consequences, contributing to family and social instability. Given the challenges of substance use disorders, prevention is crucial. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of an educational intervention based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) on preventing drug relapse among those with substance use disorder in treatment centers in Shiraz.

Methods: This experimental study included 200 drug-dependent individuals undergoing methadone and buprenorphine treatment. Participants were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. Data were collected using a validated researcher-made questionnaire based on TPB and the Billings & Moos Coping Strategies Questionnaire. The intervention consisted of 14 training sessions (50-55 min each), using lectures, discussions, visual aids, and videos.

Results: Before the intervention, the groups had no significant differences in knowledge, attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, or coping strategies. Six months after the intervention, the intervention group showed significant improvements in these areas compared to the control group. The relapse rate was significantly lower in the intervention group.

Conclusion: The TPB-based intervention effectively improved awareness, attitude, perceived behavioral control, and coping strategies, reducing relapse rates. Implementing such educational programs in treatment centers can enhance long-term recovery outcomes.