(PS1-13) Perceived Addiction Potential: Evidence of the Accuracy of Self-assessed Substance Use Disorder Risk

Background: Substance use disorders (SUDs) are complex health conditions influenced by biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Research has extensively covered implicated psychological constructs, such as attitudes, motivations, and expectations. However, researchers have not thoroughly examined the cognitive self-evaluation of one's SUD risk.


Aim: In the current study, we introduced the concept of Perceived Addiction Potential (PAP) – an individual's self-assessed likelihood of developing a SUD – and aimed to define, measure, and characterize this construct.


Method: We generated the initial items through a comprehensive review of literature and media, and then substance use expert clinicians refined them. We conducted an online study of Undergraduate students (n = 125; M_age = 19.18, SD = 1.05; 62% female; 58% White), substance-related Reddit forum members (n = 224; M_age = 31.28, SD = 9.21; 58% male; 82% White), and Recovery Dharma members (n = 136; M_age = 50.48, SD = 11.50; 61% male; 94% White).

Results: Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses suggested a 20-item structure of the Perceived Addiction Potential Inventory, categorized into four factors: Superiority, Use Rationalization, Perceived Safety, and Perceived Protection. This model remained consistent across samples and self-reported SUD diagnoses, showing excellent internal consistency and construct validity. Notably, PAP scores negatively correlated with SUD severity and substance use but positively with insight and SUD knowledge.


Conclusions: This study introduces a new method for evaluating an individual's perceived susceptibility to SUDs, positioning PAP as a novel construct of interest.