Date of Submission

2026

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

Department Chair

Stephanie Felgoise, PhD, ABPP

First Advisor

David Rubenstein, PsyD

Second Advisor

Robert A. DiTomasso, PhD, ABPP

Third Advisor

Bruce Zahn, EdD

Abstract

Substance use rates in the United States continue to rise despite low treatment utilization. Research has indicated the function of distorted patterns of thinking that can influence the relapse process. This study aimed to examine the relationships between relapse patterns, length of abstinence, and endorsed rates of cognitive distortions on the Cognitive Distortions Scale (CDS). This study sought participants 18 years or older with a history of problematic substance use and substance use treatment within the past 2 years. Participants were recruited through social media sites. Proposed statistical analyses included Pearson’s product-moment correlation, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). Statistical analyses could not be completed due to low sample size and suspected bot activity. Descriptive statistics were calculated. The trends found in the study included disparate levels in participation across demographics, type of treatment, and substance of use. Most participants endorsed a prolonged return to use instead of a lapse. Demographic trends skewed predominantly white, female, and middle-aged. A majority of participants endorsed 12-step programs over more formal substance use treatment. Trends also indicated a significant risk profile in the substances of use. A high endorsement of co-morbid psychopathology was observed in participants, particularly depression and anxiety. Results from the CDS indicate that subscale scores were relatively equal across subdomains. The results may suggest that distorted cognitions persist despite treatment or length of abstinence, with future studies addressing methodological issues including recruitment concerns, greater diagnostic clarification, and a more longitudinal assessment of relapse in early recovery.

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