title: The Feasibility and Acceptability of "Arise": An Online Substance Abuse Relapse Prevention Program.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility and acceptability of a novel online adolescent substance abuse relapse prevention tool, "Arise" (3C Institute, Cary, NC). The program uses an innovative platform including interactive instructional segments and skill-building games to help adolescents learn and practice coping skills training strategies.
  
  
  METHODS
  We conducted a pilot test with nine adolescents in substance abuse treatment (44 percent female) and a feasibility test with treatment providers (n=8; 50 percent female). Adolescents interacted with the program via a secure Web site for approximately 30 minutes for each of two instructional units. Treatment providers reviewed the same material at their own pace. All participants completed a questionnaire with items assessing usability, acceptability, understanding, and subjective experience of the program.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Regarding feasibility, recruitment of this population within the study constraints proved challenging, but participant retention in the trial was high (no attrition). Adolescents and treatment providers completed the program with no reported problems, and overall we were able to collect data as planned. Regarding acceptability, the program received strong ratings from both adolescents and providers, who found the prototype informative, engaging, and appealing. Both groups strongly recommended continuing development.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  We were able to deliver the intervention as intended, and acceptability ratings were high, demonstrating the feasibility and acceptability of online delivery of engaging interactive interventions. This study contributes to our understanding of how interactive technologies, including games, can be used to modify behavior in substance abuse treatment and other health areas.
authors.affiliation: 3C Institute , Cary, North Carolina.
authors.forename: Rebecca Polley
authors.initials: RP
authors.lastname: Sanchez
authors.affiliation: 3C Institute , Cary, North Carolina.
authors.forename: Chelsea M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Bartel
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000294:Adolescent Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D000328:Adult; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000295:instrumentation*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006282:Health Personnel; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010349:Patient Compliance; D018579:Patient Selection; D010865:Pilot Projects; D055502:Secondary Prevention / Q000379:methods*; D012648:Self Care; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D018910:Video Games