Dr. Andrew Jones on Real-Time Data in Substance Use Research
Ecological momentary assessment is just a collective name for a variety of techniques that allow you to measure whatever variable you're interested in the moment and in naturalistic settings. So it's particularly useful in addiction, where we know it's very difficult to model things like drug use in the laboratory.
Imagine being able to capture the ebb and flow of substance use as it happens in real life. In this episode of the 'Addiction Journal Podcast', social media editor Suzi Gage sits down with Dr. Andrew Jones, a lecturer at the University of Liverpool, to talk about his groundbreaking research on Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA).
EMA is a method that allows researchers to collect data on substance use and psychological states in real-time, providing a more accurate picture of behaviors and triggers. However, the challenge lies in getting participants to consistently comply with the assessment protocols. Dr. Jones conducted a meta-analysis to dig into the compliance rates of these studies and uncovered some fascinating insights.
He explains how EMA works, the benefits it offers, and the hurdles researchers face when participants don’t stick to the protocol. One of the standout points is that high compliance rates don't necessarily mean high-quality data, a nuance that can significantly impact the reliability of research findings. If you’re curious about the latest methods in addiction research or want to understand the complexities behind gathering real-world data, this episode is a must-listen. Dr.
Jones breaks down his findings in an accessible way, making it clear why better reporting on compliance is crucial for improving the statistical power of studies. Whether you're a professional in the field, someone affected by substance use, or just interested in cutting-edge research, this conversation sheds light on an important tool in understanding addiction. Tune in to gain a deeper appreciation for the meticulous work that goes into studying substance use and its many variables.