MAPIT: Development of a web-based intervention targeting substance abuse treatment in the criminal justice system

Abstract

Although drug and alcohol treatment are common requirements in the U.S. criminal justice system, only a minority of clients actually initiate treatment. This paper describes a two-session, web-based intervention to increase motivation for substance abuse treatment among clients using illicit substances. MAPIT (Motivational Assessment Program to Initiate Treatment) integrates the extended parallel process model, motivational interviewing, and social cognitive theory. The first session (completed near the start of probation) targets motivation to complete probation, to make changes in substance use (including treatment initiation), and to obtain HIV testing and care. The second session (completed approximately 30 days after session 1) focuses on goal setting, coping strategies, and social support. Both sessions can generate emails or mobile texts to remind clients of their goals. MAPIT uses theory-based algorithms and a text-to-speech engine to deliver custom feedback and suggestions. In an initial test, participants indicated that the program was respectful, easy to use, and would be helpful in making changes in substance use. MAPIT is being tested in a randomized trial in two large U.S. probation agencies. MAPIT addresses the difficulties of many probation agencies to maximize client involvement in treatment, in a way that is cost effective and compatible with the existing service delivery system.

The Feasibility of a Web Intervention for Military and Veteran Spouses Concerned About Their Partner’s Alcohol Misuse

“…WBIs may be ideal for CPs of service members and veterans because the delivery method supports users’ confidentiality and is completed at a self-directed pace, 25, 26 which is particularly attractive for service member populations concerned about mandated reporting by their superiors, and who have limited free time due to family and military work duties. Consequently, WBIs have the potential to extend the reach and impact of traditional preventative interventions.…”

Effectiveness of a computerized motivational intervention on treatment initiation and substance use: Results from a randomized trial

“…At the participant’s request, the program could send emails or mobile texts to remind participants of their goals. The development and content of MAPIT is described more fully elsewhere (Walters et al, 2014); samples of the program can be viewed at: http://youtu.be/9yV6bTn1tVE; http://youtu.be/XEZ5o48WwTg; http://youtu.be/u2SHWG0QXe8; http://youtu.be/wMShVdPpcsw. We structured the MI intervention similarly to MAPIT, using a tailored feedback report and activities that addressed motivation to engage in treatment and successfully complete probation.…”

People’s reasons for wanting to complete probation: Use and predictive validity in an e-health intervention

“…Full details on the development and content of MAPIT can be found elsewhere (Walters et al, 2013). Near the beginning of the first MAPIT session, the program asked clients to identify their most important reasons for wanting to complete probation.…”

“…Motivational interviewing (MI) is one common treatment approach that targets motivation and commitment to change (McMurran, 2009; Prochaska & Levesque, 2002; Walters et al, 2013). A basic tenet of MI is that client language predicts subsequent behavior change (Miller & Rollnick, 2002, 2012).…”