Development and validation of the Stimulant Refusal Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (SRSEQ) in stimulant users in treatment.

Abstract Background Self-efficacy is a core component of social cognitive theory. Refusal self-efficacy is an individual's belief in their ability to refuse a substance in specific high-risk situations. Change in refusal self-efficacy is predictive of positive treatment outcomes. Measurement of refusal self-efficacy is critical as it directs coping skills development techniques though existing behavioural treatments. There is no validated measure of stimulant refusal self-efficacy. This study developed and validated the Stimulant Refusal Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (SRSEQ) to measure confidence in the ability to refuse stimulants in specific high-risk situations. Method Two hundred and seven stimulant-using patients referred for assessment completed the SRSEQ and measures including stimulant dependence severity (Severity of Dependence Scale-Stimulant, SDS-S). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) using structural equation modelling (SEM) was conducted to test the theoretically-driven three-factor structure of the SRSEQ. Criterion validity was tested with severity of stimulant dependence. Results The CFA supported the three-factor structure. Emotional Relief (β = -.27, p =.008), Opportunistic (β = -.24, p =.013) and Social Facilitation (β = -.32, p Conclusions The SRSEQ is psychometrically sound and may be clinically useful to assist with assessment and treatment planning for stimulant use disorder.