title: A review of computer-based interventions used in the assessment, treatment, and research of drug addiction.
abstract: Computer-based interventions are cost-efficient methods that may result in greater access to drug addiction treatment. We review recent findings from our laboratory where computer-based interventions have produced outcomes that are comparable to therapist-delivered interventions. We also examine how computer-based interventions targeting substance abuse disorders relate to cognitive functioning. This review will suggest that not only are computer-based interventions cost-efficient and accessible but that they are also effective methods for the motivation, engagement, and treatment of drug-dependent individuals. Moreover, computer-based interventions are compatible with a recently proposed biological mechanism implicated as the basis for drug addiction.
authors.affiliation: Center for Addiction Research, Department of Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA. WBickel@uams.edu
authors.forename: Warren K
authors.initials: WK
authors.lastname: Bickel
authors.forename: Darren R
authors.initials: DR
authors.lastname: Christensen
authors.forename: Lisa A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Marsch
mesh_terms: D001921:Brain / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D003071:Cognition; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D006801:Humans; D008491:Medical Informatics Applications; D009484:Neuropsychology / Q000379:methods; D011859:Radiography; D012106:Research; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000191:economics / Q000628:therapy*