4101.1: Tuesday, November 14, 2000 - Board 10

Abstract #15224

What Does the Public Tells Us: Using Qualitative Data to Uncover Substance Abuse Trends in Children and Adolescents

Sonya Butler Merrill, MCP, MBA, Executive Officer, SAMHSA's National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information, P. O. Box 2345, Rockville, MD 20847-2345, 800-729-6686 (ext. 312), smerrill@health.org

The presentation explores the use of qualitative response data from end users of an information clearinghouse to uncover trends in substance abuse among children and pre-adolescents. The exploration includes a discussion of qualitative data capture methods, approaches to analyzing data obtained by qualitative research methods, and use of the analyzed results to assess trends and to recommend programs.

The discussion provides supportive evidence for the use of qualitative research data as a rich and readily available alternative data source comparable to quantitative data in its ability to support research-based programming.

Learning Objectives: To consider the use of qualitative data collection methods. To examine the richness of qualitative data and how it differs in content from quantitative data. To identify and assess the themes and trends that emerge from qualitative data sources, particularly as it applies to child and adolescent substance abuse prevention. To encourage design of pre-adolescent programs from trend data obtained through qualitative research

Keywords: Children and Adolescents, Substance Abuse Prevention

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's(SAMHSA's) National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 128th Annual Meeting of APHA