A comparison of computer-based versus pencil-and-paper assessment of drug use

Objective: This randomized trial explores whether client responses to a structured interview differed when the interview was administered using a paper instrument or a computer Method: 100 clients in substance abuse treatment were randomly assigned to undergo a comprehensive clinical assessment by either standard pencil-and-paper interview or computer-assisted interview. The reported use of drugs and incidence of drug-related problems were compared across the two types of administration using ANOVA, independent sample t tests, and chi-square statistics. The difference in the effect of the computerized interview on clients with and without pending legal issues was also evaluated. Results: In general, clients provided the same responses to standard pencil-and-paper interviews and computer-assisted interviews. Having pending legal issues did not affect the client's sensitivity to the computer-assisted interview. Conclusion: We found no evidence that the use of computerized clinical assessments by social work practitioners compromises the validity of client responses.