Jordan J Negrine, Cheneal Puljević, Jason Ferris, Paul Liknaitzky, Christopher Perlman, Timothy Piatkowski
{"title":"Australian psychologists' attitudes towards psychedelic-assisted therapy and training following a world-first drug down-scheduling.","authors":"Jordan J Negrine, Cheneal Puljević, Jason Ferris, Paul Liknaitzky, Christopher Perlman, Timothy Piatkowski","doi":"10.1111/dar.13973","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13973","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>This study explores the attitudes of psychologists towards psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) following the world-first regulatory changes in 2023 in Australia which permitted psilocybin and 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA) to be used in clinical services.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A purposive sample of 20 Australian psychologists was recruited using snowball sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted which explored participants' attitudes, knowledge and concerns about PAT. Data were coded and analysed to identify and develop theme categories.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Most psychologists exhibited positive attitudes towards psychedelics and their therapeutic potential, viewing them as promising for addressing chronic mental health conditions like depression. However, there was a notable concern regarding the limited evidence on efficacy and potential adverse experiences, as well as the complexity of the individualised treatment protocol. Despite enthusiasm, many psychologists had limited detailed knowledge about the interventions themselves. The need for comprehensive education and training programs, including exposure to psychedelic experiences and credible higher education institutions, was emphasised to ensure competence in administering PAT.</p><p><strong>Discussion and conclusions: </strong>Psychologists displayed notably positive attitudes towards PAT, likely reflecting both shifting perceptions of psychedelics and self-selection bias within the sample. Despite this optimism, concerns were raised about psychiatric risks and the necessity for comprehensive and reputable training and supervision. The cohort showed openness to both novel treatments and innovative training methods, underscoring the importance of enhancing educational frameworks to ensure effective implementation of PAT.</p>","PeriodicalId":11318,"journal":{"name":"Drug and alcohol review","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142582177","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Taisia Huckle, Kristen Mummert, Antonia Lyons, Tim McCreanor, Georgia McLellan, Helen Moewaka Barnes
{"title":"New immersive alcohol marketing and commerce in metaverse environments.","authors":"Taisia Huckle, Kristen Mummert, Antonia Lyons, Tim McCreanor, Georgia McLellan, Helen Moewaka Barnes","doi":"10.1111/dar.13967","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13967","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>The study aims are to: (i) explore methods for identifying alcohol company marketing in metaverses; (ii) identify current types of alcohol marketing in metaverses; and (iii) identify dominant portrayals and meanings of alcohol marketing in these settings.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Our design was exploratory, employing various approaches to identify alcohol company marketing across multiple metaverses. In stage one, we systematically navigated through metaverses as an avatar, documenting and coding all instances of alcohol company marketing. In stage two, the research team collaboratively explored and discussed excerpts of this marketing. The team thematically analysed the transcribed discussion, identifying key meanings and interpretations of immersive and interactive alcohol marketing.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Stage one: alcohol company marketing was identified in two metaverses, Decentraland and Sandbox. Within those metaverses were five alcohol company marketing experiences: Heineken Silver, Jose Cuervo Tequila, Wisher Vodka, San Matias Tequila, and Mason Martell Cognac. Marketing strategies included immersive commerce, virtual drinking, immersive branding, immersive engagement, gaming, non-fungible tokens (digital assets), education, non-player characters promoting brands and virtual event-based marketing. Stage two: themes identified were: (i) immersive branding, representing continued exposure to brands that were both foregrounded and on the edge of users' awareness; (ii) immersive engagement, including alcohol-related gaming, quests, and alcohol production; (iii) avatars simulating drinking behaviour (virtual drinking); and (iv) immersive commerce representing how metaverse alcohol marketing may drive alcohol transactions.</p><p><strong>Discussion and conclusion: </strong>Alcohol companies are using novel immersive marketing techniques in metaverses. The impact on the experiences and drinking behaviours of users are unknown and require investigation.</p>","PeriodicalId":11318,"journal":{"name":"Drug and alcohol review","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142575605","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"University-based academic programs in addiction studies in the regions of Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand: An overview.","authors":"Amalie Lososová, Peter Adams, Michal Miovský","doi":"10.1111/dar.13970","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13970","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Current trends in the addiction field reflect a significant emphasis on the workforce development and education. There are already some data about university-based addiction studies programs, but not much from Australasia.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The aim is to provide an overview and describe the academic programs for addiction professionals in Australia and Aotearoa NZ. The research was conducted in 2017 and updated in 2023. Firstly, university websites were searched using pre-defined keywords, followed by a content analysis of the identified programs. The data were analysed and interpreted by using descriptive statistics.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>We found 21 universities in Australia (13) and Aotearoa NZ (8) where 46 single programs are provided. There are three bachelor programs, nine masters, and the majority of degrees include (post)graduate certificates and diplomas. No doctorate programs are identified. The taught courses provide comprehensive coverage of the addiction field topics. Twelve programs state clearly that there is clinical practice/internship included. Application to most programs requires completion of a relevant degree and in some cases possible clinical experience.</p><p><strong>Discussion and conclusions: </strong>In comparison to educational options in other regions, we observe a trend towards preparing university graduates for the workforce, thereby expanding the range of programs at lower levels. Most programs possibly represent clinically oriented education primarily specialising in addictions, and graduate programs in addictions for professionals with other disciplinary bases. Great emphasis is given to the quality standards of education, and also to relationship between education and labour market. Findings help opening opportunities to collaborate globally.</p>","PeriodicalId":11318,"journal":{"name":"Drug and alcohol review","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142570941","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Dr James Rankin, a man ahead of his time.","authors":"Margaret Hamilton, Alex Wodak","doi":"10.1111/dar.13966","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13966","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":11318,"journal":{"name":"Drug and alcohol review","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2024-10-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142544350","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Elena D Dimova, Niamh K Shortt, Matt Smith, Richard J Mitchell, Peter Lekkas, Jamie R Pearce, Tom L Clemens, Carol Emslie
{"title":"Public and professional stakeholders' perceptions of alcohol advertising and availability policies: A qualitative study.","authors":"Elena D Dimova, Niamh K Shortt, Matt Smith, Richard J Mitchell, Peter Lekkas, Jamie R Pearce, Tom L Clemens, Carol Emslie","doi":"10.1111/dar.13972","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13972","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Reducing alcohol availability and restricting alcohol advertising are effective ways to reduce harm from alcohol. Implementation of public health policies involves collaboration between different stakeholders, and is influenced by public opinion. This paper explores public and professional stakeholders' perceptions of alcohol advertising and availability policies. It is the first to capture consensus and divergence in narratives of these stakeholders.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We conducted semi-structured interviews with 14 stakeholders from third sector organisations, government, public health and alcohol licensing in Scotland. We conducted 11 online focus groups with 45 participants, living in neighbourhoods in Scotland characterised by varying levels of urbanity, deprivation and retail density change. We gave participants a list of policies and discussed their views on acceptability, feasibility and likely success.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Despite general consensus that regulation of alcohol advertising is an important priority, public stakeholders were concerned about the feasibility of advertising interventions and potential unintended consequences. While professional stakeholders were in favour of regulating alcohol availability, public stakeholders had misgivings about feasibility and effectiveness. When prompted to discuss specific interventions, similar views about protecting children and achieving cultural change emerged.</p><p><strong>Discussion and conclusions: </strong>This study highlights the importance of policy makers and other stakeholders to consider public stakeholders' opinions on alcohol policy and understanding that their views may be influenced by competing framings of alcohol problems. Attempts to increase support for alcohol control policies need to consider people's concerns about the effectiveness and potential unintended consequences of these policies, and the wider social context of alcohol consumption.</p>","PeriodicalId":11318,"journal":{"name":"Drug and alcohol review","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2024-10-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142521352","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A netnographic study of anabolic-androgenic steroid initiation videos on YouTube.","authors":"Matthew J Gill, Timothy Piatkowski, Matthew Dunn","doi":"10.1111/dar.13969","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13969","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>YouTube personalities (YP) have amassed significant followings by distributing health information. There is concern that YP involved in anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) communities are sharing information on how people should approach initiating AAS use. This research sought to explore how YP are using their platform to distribute information on AAS initiation, what information is being presented and how people are responding.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This mixed methods research utilised a netnographic approach, a method adapted from traditional ethnographic techniques for the study of online sociocultural phenomena. The research included a selection of YouTube videos (n = 37) and user comments replying to the videos (n = 584).</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>YP addressed the positives and negatives of AAS initiation (76%; n = 28 and 76%; n = 28 respectively), provided harm reduction strategies (76%; n = 28), and advice on which AAS people should use (97%; n = 36). A qualitative thematic analysis of the comments found two overarching themes: 'Authenticity, capital and the influence of the YP on their audiences' and 'The evolving landscape of enhancement and health'. Viewers engaged with the videos due to the YPs lived experience using AAS, and YP influenced the health behaviours of viewers. Many believed that the videos were useful for health and lifestyle enhancement purposes.</p><p><strong>Discussion and conclusions: </strong>YP are disseminating diverse information on AAS initiation which is derived from their lived experience using AAS. Harm reduction is a key component of the YPs' message and viewers responded positively to a balanced and honest assessment of AAS initiation which is perceived to respect their personal autonomy.</p>","PeriodicalId":11318,"journal":{"name":"Drug and alcohol review","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2024-10-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142497010","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Ks Kylie Lee, James H Conigrave, Elizabeth Dale, Katherine M Conigrave, Monika Dzidowska, Taleah Reynolds, Scott Wilson, Jimmy Perry, Danielle Manton, Alex Lee, Noel Hayman, Catherine Zheng, Michelle Fitts, Dan Wilson, Angela Dawson
{"title":"Acceptability and quality of the 'Grog Survey App' brief intervention: Helping Aboriginal Australians reflect on their drinking using a digital health tool.","authors":"Ks Kylie Lee, James H Conigrave, Elizabeth Dale, Katherine M Conigrave, Monika Dzidowska, Taleah Reynolds, Scott Wilson, Jimmy Perry, Danielle Manton, Alex Lee, Noel Hayman, Catherine Zheng, Michelle Fitts, Dan Wilson, Angela Dawson","doi":"10.1111/dar.13964","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13964","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>The Grog Survey App is a validated, visual and interactive self-administered application for tablet computers that is designed to help Aboriginal Australians describe their alcohol consumption. Each person who completes the App also receives a brief intervention with feedback tailored to their survey responses. We aimed to qualitatively assess the acceptability and perceived quality of the Grog App's brief intervention, among higher risk consumers and health providers at an Aboriginal residential rehabilitation centre.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This descriptive qualitative study analysed feedback from clients (n = 20) and staff (n = 10) of a drug and alcohol residential rehabilitation service on the brief intervention element of the Grog App. Data were collected face-to-face via semi-structured interviews over four consecutive weeks between May and June 2021. A content analysis was conducted, which was informed by the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS).</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Client and staff feedback is summarised using four themes from the MARS framework: (i) aesthetics; (ii) engagement; (iii) functionality; and (iv) information. Most clients and staff felt like health messages on the brief intervention were written by 'someone who understands'. Overall, clients and staff described the brief intervention as visually appealing, engaging and likely able to elicit 'lightbulb moments'.</p><p><strong>Discussion and conclusion: </strong>The brief intervention on the Grog App is unique in its provision of tailored advice based on survey responses to all individuals (i.e., those who do not drink through to those with likely dependence). Further research is needed to assess effectiveness of this brief intervention.</p>","PeriodicalId":11318,"journal":{"name":"Drug and alcohol review","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2024-10-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142497011","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Timothy Piatkowski, Nick Gibbs, David Neumann, Matthew Dunn
{"title":"Consuming 'God Juice': Using 'ethnopharmacological-connoisseurship' to situate trenbolone use and knowledge among image and performance enhancing drug communities.","authors":"Timothy Piatkowski, Nick Gibbs, David Neumann, Matthew Dunn","doi":"10.1111/dar.13965","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13965","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Trenbolone, a potent anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS), is used for its muscle growth benefits but poses significant health risks, including psychosocial issues. Existing research among humans is limited by lack of targeted investigation. This study addresses gaps in existing research by leveraging the ethnopharmacological expertise of trenbolone consumers. By engaging with the community's connoisseurship, we sought to enhance harm reduction strategies and foster collaboration between consumers, scholars and health practitioners.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>An international sample of trenbolone consumers (N = 30) were interviewed. Interviews explored trenbolone use, knowledge levels and harm reduction strategies. Analysis involved an iterative categorisation approach, incorporating the lead author's lived experience with trenbolone.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Participants described trenbolone as both a physical enhancer and a source of psychological boosts, tempered by adverse effects such as emotional volatility and intrusive thoughts. Despite warnings about its dangers the drug's allure was amplified by social media and community visibility. Consumers spoke of a developing connoisseur-like knowledge about trenbolone through personal and shared experiences. Through this collective expertise, they developed harm reduction strategies such as conservative dosing and regular health monitoring.</p><p><strong>Discussion and conclusions: </strong>This study demonstrates the importance of integrating ethnopharmacological-connoisseurship from the image and performance enhancing drug community to develop a contextually relevant understanding of AAS use-trenbolone being one of these. By elevating community insights, we advocate for a collaborative approach to harm reduction. Ultimately, we call for partnerships between researchers, health professionals and consumers to enhance health and reduce harm in image and performance enhancing drug communities.</p>","PeriodicalId":11318,"journal":{"name":"Drug and alcohol review","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2024-10-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142460489","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Correction to \"Social recovery in substance use disorder: A metasynthesis of qualitative studies\".","authors":"","doi":"10.1111/dar.13971","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13971","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":11318,"journal":{"name":"Drug and alcohol review","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2024-10-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142460490","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}