Changes in Perceptions on Addiction and Empathy after a Drugs and Behavior Course at a Small Liberal Arts College

Abstract Empathy is linked to decreased relapse in patients with substance abuse. Educational programming for nursing and medical students focused on developing empathy, but no research has been done on how drug education can alter perceptions and empathy toward addiction. This study examined the influence of a drugs course on attitudes toward addiction. Pre-and post-course surveys measured empathy toward addiction, and qualitative descriptions. Overall empathy remained steady but students trended toward promoting more social programs and support. Descriptions changed from a focus on lack of willpower to vulnerabilities, suggesting that a single course could exert influence on perceptions of addiction.