College
Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences
Date of Last Revision
2026-04-28 12:33:55
Major
Psychology
Honors Course
PSYC 498
Number of Credits
4
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2026
Abstract
This research project explores how the lived experience of having an immediate family member with a substance use disorder (SUD) influences a person’s perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors related to substance use. Rather than focusing on the individual diagnosed with SUD, the study examines the reciprocal impact on family members within the social subsystem. Using a quasi-experimental design, the project will compare participant responses using with and without a familial connection to SUD. Data will be collected through Qualtrics surveys distributed via SONA. These measures will record demographic information, personal substance use habits, attitudes toward addiction, perception of substance use disorders, and familial history of SUD. The goal of this project is to broaden understanding of how exposure to addiction shapes individuals’ views and behaviors. Results could go on to better inform evidence-based prevention, education, and treatment strategies.
Research Sponsor
Jennifer Stanley
First Reader
Toni Bisconti
Second Reader
Kevin Kaut
Honors Faculty Advisor
Kevin Kaut
Proprietary and/or Confidential Information
No
Community Engaged Scholarship
No
Recommended Citation
Lefeld, Elijah M. and Stanley, Jennifer, "The Influence of Familial Substance Use Disorder on Perceptions and Attitudes towards Substance Use Disorders and Participant Substance Use Behavior Among Emerging Adults" (2026). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 2133.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/2133
Included in
Cognition and Perception Commons, Interpersonal and Small Group Communication Commons, Quantitative, Qualitative, Comparative, and Historical Methodologies Commons, Social Policy Commons, Social Psychology Commons, Social Psychology and Interaction Commons, Social Work Commons, Substance Abuse and Addiction Commons