Showing papers in "Journal of Technology in Human Services in 2013"
TL;DR: Although there is emerging evidence supporting the use of online chat, the overall quality of the studies is poor, including few randomized control trials (RCTs), and there is an urgent need for further research to support the widespread implementation of this form of mental health service delivery.
Abstract: Online interventions are increasingly seen as having the potential to meet the growing demand for mental health services. However, with the burgeoning of services provided online by psychologists, counselors, and social workers, it is becoming critical to ensure that the interventions provided are supported by research evidence. This article reviews evidence for the effectiveness of individual synchronous online chat counseling and therapy (referred to as “online chat”). Despite using inclusive review criteria, only six relevant studies were found. They showed that although there is emerging evidence supporting the use of online chat, the overall quality of the studies is poor, including few randomized control trials (RCTs). There is an urgent need for further research to support the widespread implementation of this form of mental health service delivery.
155 citations
TL;DR: Challenges encountered during the efforts to develop and test a prototype version of the game are discussed and concrete and practical strategies for addressing these challenges are presented.
Abstract: Interest is growing in gamification, the use of game techniques and mechanics to engage and motivate. Future predictions suggest that this interest will continue to grow especially in the use of games to change individual behavior. However, applying gamification concepts and principles is challenging. Despite the growing interest, few gamification efforts have documented the challenges associated with the game development and application process. This article illustrates how gamification concepts and principles were applied to the development of an online, multiuser, substance abuse, and relationship violence prevention game for youths. We discuss challenges encountered during the efforts to develop and test a prototype version of the game and then present concrete and practical strategies for addressing these challenges. This article provides guidance for other researchers and practitioners who may want to gamify human service processes and use gamification techniques within a behavior change framework.
96 citations
TL;DR: Topol as discussed by the authors argues that the American public is ready for a revolution in health care that could surpass the effects of health care reform, and he argues that "Health care reform addresses the delivery process of the health care".
Abstract: Is the American public ready for a revolution in health care that could surpass the effects of health care reform? Health care reform addresses the delivery process of health care. Eric Topol, in h...
93 citations
TL;DR: The positive aspects and interdisciplinary possibilities when telehealth is incorporated into mental health practice are outlined and novel outlets including mHealth and the utilization of computer tablets as mental health facilitators are outlined.
Abstract: Mental health professionals must establish new means to reach those in need that face obstacles related to geographical location, time limitations, and health. With the high incidence of mental illness, as well as the hypothesized increase in coming years, telehealth modalities propose a novel and far-reaching alternative to traditional therapy. This article outlines the positive aspects and interdisciplinary possibilities when telehealth is incorporated into mental health practice. Novel outlets including mHealth and the utilization of computer tablets as mental health facilitators are outlined. Considerations for practice including training are discussed, as well as potential future directions for the field. Available data supports telehealth as an effective mode for the treatment of clients who are unable to pursue mental health services in their current form. However, careful consideration and training for the mental health professional is needed if telehealth is to be effectively used to alleviate th...
51 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors explore a prototype smart phone application (app) that is a safety decision aid for female survivors of dating violence, which is intended to assist young women to assess the danger in their abusive relationship, set priorities for safety, and develop a personalized safety plan.
Abstract: College-age women are at high risk for dating violence and tend to seek services at rates lower than older adults. Young women are more likely to look to their peers or to technology as a forum for accessing safety resources. This study explores a prototype smart phone application (“app”) that is a safety decision aid for female survivors of dating violence. The app is intended to assist young women to assess the danger in their abusive relationship, set priorities for safety, and develop a personalized safety plan. Through focus group sessions and individual interviews, 38 female college students in 4 states (Arizona, Maryland, Missouri, and Oregon) who self-identified as survivors of abusive relationships reviewed and provided feedback on the usefulness, understandability, appropriateness, and comprehensiveness of the app. The focus group sessions and interviews were transcribed and analyzed. Participants were positive about the potential of the app to provide personalized information about abusive dati...
51 citations
TL;DR: Findings indicate that YAMHC look up information related to their mental health for a variety of reasons that are unique to the online experience, and use that information to help them with their care, despite at times feeling overwhelmed by, and not always trusting of, the information available.
Abstract: Barriers such as stigmatization and access to health care may lead young adults with mental health conditions (YAMHC) to try to find alternatives to more traditional means of obtaining care. One possible alternative is to seek information online. The purpose of this article is to better understand how YAMHC use the Internet to access information about mental health, and the challenges they face when trying to access that information. Semistructured focus groups were conducted to investigate how YAMHC use the Internet for information and support regarding their mental health. Three major themes about mental health information seeking emerged from the data: (a) Topics searched, (b) Motivations for going online to search for information, and (c) Barriers to successful searching. Findings indicate that YAMHC look up information related to their mental health for a variety of reasons that are unique to the online experience, and use that information to help them with their care, despite at times feeling overwh...
49 citations
TL;DR: A negative correlation between power distance and human development is found and negative correlations were also found between uncertainty avoidance and two cell phone subscription as well as internet use.
Abstract: Correlations between Hofstede's dimensions of power distance and uncertainty avoidance and selected indicators of the Human Development Report (HDR) were analyzed. Three communication technology indicators—that is, cell phone subscription, Internet use, and the number of telephone mainlines—were predicted to measure the development of a nation. Results indicate a negative correlation between high power distance and communication technology in terms of the three technologies examined in this study. We found a negative correlation between power distance and human development. Negative correlations were also found between uncertainty avoidance and two cell phone subscription as well as internet use.
43 citations
TL;DR: The results presented in this article, derived from an initial user lab test of a telecare system—GiraffPlus—indicate that the crucial factor for adoption of telehealthcare systems is not usability but the system's ability to support autonomy in everyday life.
Abstract: The use of telehealthcare systems to promote independent living for elderly people is growing. The results presented in this article, derived from an initial user lab test of a telecare system—GiraffPlus—indicate that the crucial factor for adoption of telehealthcare systems is not usability but the system's ability to support autonomy in everyday life. Eleven users tested the usability and reported what they perceived as possible benefits of having such a system at home. To support autonomy, customization is crucial for the system to be perceived as meaningful for the individual. Our analysis confirms previous research.
41 citations
TL;DR: This report analyzes existing mobile applications available for one specific field of HSO service delivery—suicide prevention—in order to describe what is currently available and to generate beginning guidelines for the development, implementation, and evaluation of new suicide prevention apps for underserved populations.
Abstract: Every day, Americans are inundated with advertisements and appeals to purchase the latest mobile technology in the form of smart phones, tablets, and their accompanying applications (apps) Human service organizations (HSOs) across the United States have begun to recognize that apps can provide a valuable resource for individuals and communities by addressing social issues Additionally, forward-thinking HSOs are aware that apps are a fresh and important way of reaching a rapidly changing, tech-savvy population But just like the marketplace at large yields a variety of apps that range from useful and engaging to poorly contrived and ineffective, HSOs' foray into app development has achieved mixed results This report analyzes existing mobile applications available for one specific field of HSO service delivery—suicide prevention—in order to describe what is currently available and to generate beginning guidelines for the development, implementation, and evaluation of new suicide prevention apps for under
40 citations
TL;DR: This paper explored how licensed health care providers use social media and found that the majority of the psychologists, physicians, and social workers who participated in this study now frequently use Facebook, often providing information on profiles that may include that which is not generally disclosed in a client-therapist relationship.
Abstract: The present study explores how licensed health care providers use social media. The researchers utilized a survey to explore 88 licensed psychologists, physicians, and social workers average numbers of Facebook© friends, social groups, and photo albums as well as attitudes toward possible regulation of online social networking by professional organizations. Statistically significant differences were found among groups regarding the degree to which they wanted guidance on ethically managing this new technology, with psychologists and social workers desiring more guidance than physicians. Overall, this study shows that the majority of the psychologists, physicians, and social workers who participated in this study now frequently use Facebook, often providing information on profiles that may include that which is not generally disclosed in a client–therapist relationship.
20 citations
TL;DR: Clinicians' experiences of using Podcasts to assist with implementing an evidence-based practice (EBP) were explored, and it was found that the Podcasts were helpful, liked the short length, fit their learning styles, useful teaching tool, and that administrative support was important for use.
Abstract: The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore clinicians' experiences of using Podcasts to assist with implementing an evidence-based practice (EBP). Twelve clinicians, including eight student interns, at a human service organization were interviewed about their perceptions of using Podcasts about implementing an EBP called Grief and Trauma Intervention (GTI) for Children. Major themes included that the Podcasts were helpful, liked the short length, fit their learning styles, useful teaching tool, wanted more clinical content and more engaging material, and that administrative support was important for use. Technological difficulties were a major barrier to use. There were some differences in experiences of the Podcasts between post-masters professionals and interns. Podcasts may be a useful technology to help clinicians implement EBPs, and future research on Podcast use is warranted.
TL;DR: The findings provide support for further research on and possible adoption of automated phone interventions as a tool in helping smokers move toward quitting, especially those who are at an earlier stage of change.
Abstract: This study evaluates the effectiveness of a web-phone intervention in changing smoking behavior. One hundred and sixteen university student smokers were recruited to participate in a randomized controlled trial. Each participant used their own mobile phone to receive messages from an automated web-phone system. After 4 weeks the participants in both the experimental group and comparison group improved on self-efficacy (SE) and stage of change (SOC) toward smoking cessation. After another 5 weeks, their SE remained significantly improved, but SOC did not. Participants in the control group did not improve. The findings provide support for further research on and possible adoption of automated phone interventions as a tool in helping smokers move toward quitting, especially those who are at an earlier stage of change. Dosage in automated interventions was found to be an area requiring future research.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors investigated how social orientation can be realized in Gerontechnology's objectives, including prevention, enhancement, compensation, care, and research, through user-driven development process of an "mStick", a tool for storing various biographical material: photographs, texts, audio and video clips, and using it in elderly care services.
Abstract: The purpose of this article is to investigate, through a case study, how social orientation can be realized in gerontechnology's objectives. The focus is on user-driven development process of an “mStick,” which is a tool for storing various biographical material: photographs, texts, audio and video clips, and using it in elderly care services. Qualitative data were collected in 11 pilot cases. The content analysis was used to investigate how the “Gerontechnology's Five Ways”: prevention, enhancement, compensation, care, and research, were applicable especially from the perspective of social implications. The mStick acts as a prevention by offering meaningful contents to life, as enhancement by offering a possibility to utilize elderly person's resources. It compensates weakening abilities by preventing the world from becoming narrower. In care, it helps to see patients as whole human beings with unique biography. In addition, mStick offers potential for, for example, applications in memory research. The i...
TL;DR: A qualitative study was conducted to gain information about communication among child advocacy multidisciplinary team (MDT) members when using a Web-based case tracking system and users positively appraised aptness of the system for expediting communication and saving time.
Abstract: A qualitative study was conducted to gain information about communication among child advocacy multidisciplinary team (MDT) members when using a Web-based case tracking system. Analysis of the focus groups revealed a number of strengths and barriers. Users positively appraised aptness of the system for expediting communication and saving time. Lack of training and duplication of effort with other systems were recognized as impediments. In addition to the typical reactions to such systems, other factors, such as motivation and subjectivity, are discussed which may affect the success of such systems.
TL;DR: DBT Self-Help is a mobile application serving as a companion to structured skills training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). It is available for both Android and iOS and works on various mobile devices as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: DBT Self-Help is a mobile application serving as a companion to structured skills training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). It is available for both Android and iOS and works on various mobile devices. This application affords users a private, easily portable way to access information and practice key DBT skill sets such as Core Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotional Regulation and Interpersonal Effectiveness. Although this app is affordable and contains a great deal of information, it can be difficult to navigate, especially for someone new to DBT concepts. The content is strong, but restructuring the presentation style would enhance clarity. This application is recommended for those already involved in a DBT-based program, and may be appropriate for those who wish to learn additional coping skills as an adjunct to other forms of treatment. Unfortunately, this app is not user-friendly enough to be easily followed by the average consumer wanting to learn new ways of managing uncomfortable emotions.
TL;DR: Nearly 40 Australian Human Services agencies were surveyed to ascertain the range of software currently in use by agencies and their opinions on it, with a view to identifying promising new Human Services applications.
Abstract: Human Services agencies use a wide range of software systems to manage caseloads, maintain records, deliver services to clients, and for interagency communication. Some systems are generic, such as Word or Excel, while some are specialized to the organization, such as specialized databases for tracking case notes. Some software systems are shared across organizations. We surveyed nearly 40 Australian Human Services agencies to ascertain the range of software currently in use by agencies and their opinions on it, with a view to identifying promising new Human Services applications. We interviewed representatives from a selection of smaller agencies. This resulted in detailed feedback on key issues to consider when developing and deploying new Human Services software.
TL;DR: This pilot study explored the feasibility of mobile media players as a resource to help veterans in recovery for alcohol abuse and dependence disorders by providing an iPod loaded with recovery-related audio podcasts.
Abstract: This pilot study explored the feasibility of mobile media players as a resource to help veterans in recovery for alcohol abuse and dependence disorders. Twenty veterans, enrolled in intensive outpatient treatment at a Veterans Hospital, participated in this study. Participants were provided an iPod loaded with recovery-related audio podcasts, and surveys were conducted before and after the intervention. Participants generally indicated they used the device regularly, thought it was useful and wished they had access to this type of support earlier in their recovery process.
TL;DR: A study showing that student internet behavior differed significantly for students with high scores on a test of depression is thought to be the first to consider the relationship between internet use and depression that focuses on patterns of online behavior rather than content as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: A study showing that student internet behavior differed significantly for students with high scores on a test of depression is thought to be the first to consider the relationship between internet use and depression that focuses on patterns of online behavior rather than content. Study findings have the potential for use in the human services as a way to assess and/or promote mental health. Although the data were collected anonymously with Institutional Review Board approval and participants' informed consent, objections have been raised suggesting this type of data collection represents “Big Brother” or the monitoring of individuals' behavior without their awareness as portrayed in George Orwell's famous novel, 1984. The importance of this type of research in furthering our understanding of the impact of Internet use on human behavior is emphasized. Additionally, the role of the university is stressed as a location for conducting ethical research which disseminates findings via publication to inform and ...
TL;DR: The framework of system of systems framework provides a way to understand issues encountered and lessons learned in developing and deploying Worker Connect and similar interagency human services systems.
Abstract: We discuss the rationale, development, deployment, and evolution of Worker Connect, a federation of agency systems that is used by authorized health and human services workers in New York City We show how Worker Connect evolved with HHS-Connect, the organization that enables the integration and synergy of interagency health and human services systems We show how the system of systems framework provides a way to understand issues encountered and lessons learned in developing and deploying Worker Connect and similar interagency human services systems The first part of this article provides a history of the Worker Connect project in the context of a case study on achieving interoperability The second part of this article introduces the framework of system of systems, and describes Worker Connect and HHS-Connect within this framework The third part of the article describes future work, and offers some lessons for others wanting to implement a system of systems project for human services
TL;DR: The results suggest that information provided by the health websites can promote help seeking in affected individuals, and country-specific differences were observed.
Abstract: Websites containing information and advice about health are increasingly common and popular. It is important to understand whether the material these sites contain can positively influence individual behavior, and whether populations differ in their response to that material. Participants in an international web-based stop smoking randomized controlled trial (RCT) were screened for major depression; participants whose history and/or depression symptoms were deemed of concern were offered one of two prompts (Strong and Mild) to seek treatment, depending on depression history. Participants from 3 predominantly English-speaking and 3 predominantly Spanish-speaking countries were analyzed. Individuals given a Strong prompt were more likely to seek treatment for depression than those given a weak prompt (16.6% vs. 10.2% of previously untreated individuals reported seeking treatment), controlling for symptom level and other variables. Country-specific differences were observed, with participants from South Africa and Spain departing from the common pattern of Strong prompt leading to higher likelihood of treatment seeking. Older age and female gender, but not symptom level predicted higher likelihood of seeking treatment following a prompt. The results suggest that information provided by the health websites can promote help seeking in affected individuals.
TL;DR: There was a significant tendency for advice to be followed, but the advice format and advisor expertise had no significant influence on advice utilization and only minor influences on self-reported perceptions of the advice and the advisor.
Abstract: Advice is increasingly sought and shared online, but advisory professionals debate the utility of such methods. Variations in recipients' perceptions of elements of traditional face-to-face (FTF) advice and Internet-mediated (IM) advice may influence its utilization. The present research investigated whether communication format (FTF vs. IM) and an advisor's level of expertise influence perceptions and utilization of advice. Participants played 30 rounds of a prisoner's dilemma game after receiving advice about the best strategy. There was a significant tendency for advice to be followed, but the advice format and advisor expertise had no significant influence on advice utilization and only minor influences on self-reported perceptions of the advice and the advisor. This has worrying implications, and could indicate a lack of critical awareness of advisors' expertise when deciding whether to follow advice or not. Implications for the professional advice field and further research possibilities are discussed.
TL;DR: In this paper, a review of current research regarding SL has examined the influence of real world social influences in online interactions and what the effects on users may be, suggesting the importance of developing an understanding of the relationship between users' real life (RL) and their SL.
Abstract: Second Life (SL) offers unique opportunities for research and exploration in virtual environments. A review of current research regarding SL has examined the influence of real world social influences in online interactions and what the effects on users may be. This suggests the importance of developing an understanding of the relationship between users' real life (RL) and their SL. Some research has begun to reveal the effectiveness of telecommunication and computer simulation with certain clients in the fields of mental health and human services, yet there is a lack of sufficient research done within the context of virtual worlds. This study illustrates a methodology which can be used for online and in-world survey data collection of participants in SL. Limitations encountered as well as suggestions for refinement are discussed. Implications for human services are discussed including engaging clients using incentives for social participation built into the SL milieu.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors assessed preliminary interest in a proposed online coping skills training program for women living with a partner with a drinking problem, including their overall program interest; relative preference for an online versus face-to-face format; likely use of adjunctive, professional communications; and use under alternate fee structures.
Abstract: Assessing prospective program reach is an important step prior to any online-development effort. This study assessed, preliminarily, interest in a proposed online coping skills training program for women living with a partner with a drinking problem, including their (a) overall program interest; (b) relative preference for an online versus face-to-face format; (c) likely use of adjunctive, professional communications; and (d) use under alternate fee structures. In a community sample of women with problem-drinking partners (N = 73), interest was high (73%); 46% preferred the online format; 31% preferred online and face-to-face formats equally. Interest in adjunctive contacts was high, but diminished with fees; interest-level predictors were few. Online skills training could potentially reach a large portion of this frequently hidden, underserved population, and be financially feasible.
TL;DR: The Journal of Technology in Human Services (JTHS) as discussed by the authors has been a leading journal in the field of human services for more than 30 years, since its founding as Computers in Human services through its current title.
Abstract: From its founding as Computers in Human Services through its current title, the Journal of Technology in Human Services has aspired to lead the world of human services in describing ways that computers, computing, and automation can improve the delivery and outcomes associated with clinical treatment, education, and research in psychology, social work, and other human services. From its very early days, in the 1980s and now some 30 years later, this Journal has been in the forefront of a human and humane image of how technology can be used to enable, to enrich, to expand, to reinforce services, research and treatments. Worldwide realities all too often reflect ever shrinking budgets for all human services. The informed use of technology will be essential to fill the ever expanding need for human services education and services. From the beginning of the journal until this issue, the Editorship has been led by one very-abled leader: Dr. Richard Schoech. This editorial is dedicated to him, but it will do so in the way that exemplifies what Dick felt to be most important: defining the mission of the journal and publishing articles that would best fit that mission. Along with the journal’s associate editor, Bruce Vieweg, we have outlined below our vision for achieving that mission.