Walden University ScholarWorks Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Collection 2018 Exploring Relationships of Meaning, Co- Occurring Diagnoses, and Attitudes About Substances Misty Grant Walden University Follow this and additional works at: https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations Part of the Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons This Dissertation is brought to you for free and open access by the Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Collection at ScholarWorks. It has been accepted for inclusion in Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies by an authorized administrator of ScholarWorks. For more information, please contact [email protected]. Walden University College of Counselor Education & Supervision This is to certify that the doctoral dissertation by Misty Grant has been found to be complete and satisfactory in all respects, and that any and all revisions required by the review committee have been made. Review Committee Dr. Corinne Bridges, Committee Chairperson, Counselor Education and Supervision Faculty Dr. Michelle Perepiczka, Committee Member, Counselor Education and Supervision Faculty Dr. Jason Patton, University Reviewer, Counselor Education and Supervision Faculty Chief Academic Officer Eric Riedel, Ph.D. Walden University 2018 Abstract Exploring Relationships of Meaning, Co-Occurring Diagnoses, and Attitudes About Substances by Misty Grant MA, Argosy University, 2012 BS, University of Utah, 2010 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Counselor Education and Supervision Walden University November 2018 Abstract It is increasingly important to understand the factors associated with individuals struggling with addiction and their quality of life, especially with those struggling with co-occurring diagnoses (CODs). The purpose of this study was to explore the extent to which meaning, and CODs of anxiety and depression predict an individual’s attitudes and beliefs about addiction among persons receiving treatment for substance use disorders (SUDs). The theoretical foundation used to guide this study was logotherapy, which emphasizes the importance of increasing meaning in life through choices, while also centering on being able to find meaning in all situations. A cross-sectional correlation design was employed, using a sample of patient admission records from a dual diagnosis treatment center in the western United States. The responses on 4 assessments related to meaning, symptoms of anxiety and depression, and attitudes about substances were analyzed using a multiple linear regression. There was no statistically significant relationship between an individual’s attitudes and beliefs about addiction as predicted by that individual’s meaning and CODs symptoms of anxiety and depression. A significant negative correlation existed between depression and meaning (p < .01), while a significant positive correlation existed between the depression and anxiety (p < .05) as well as the anxiety and attitudes about substances (p < .01). The findings from this study can assist counselor educators in understanding the correlation between SUD, increased depressive symptoms, and low personal meaning. Exploring the Relationships of Meaning, Co-Occurring Diagnoses, and Attitudes About Substances by Misty Grant MA, Argosy University, 2012 BS, University of Utah, 2010 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Counselor Education and Supervision Walden University November 2018 Dedication This dissertation is dedicated to my husband, Scott. You have been my rock more than you know and sacrificed many years to see this through with me; thank you for always standing beside me. I am forever thankful for your love and support. I also dedicate this dissertation to my family and friends who have endured this long journey with me. Thank you to everyone who has helped me during my doctoral process, the laughter, support, guidance, and unwavering foundation was always needed and appreciated. There were many sacrifices made by all, thank you for never losing your belief in me. This accomplishment is a result of seeing those who are suffering from co- occurring diagnoses have the courage to reach out for help; may everyone know there can be a different path to life. Acknowledgments I would like to thank my committee members. First of all, my chair, Dr. Corinne Bridges, for her support, expertise, guidance, and faith in me. You not only offered writing expertise and emotional support but patience and encouragement throughout the long process. I would also like to thank my second committee member, Dr. Michelle Perepiczka, for your knowledge and guidance, as well as your humor; it helped me continue to push through. I would like to also thank my URR, Dr. Jason Patton; thank you for your willingness to join last minute and provide your comprehension, support, and invaluable feedback. I would also like to thank Dr. Walter Frazier; although no longer on my committee, there were countless hours spent supporting me with your knowledge, understanding, and thorough feedback. I would like to acknowledge my husband, Scott; your endless support, reassurance, inspiration, and love keeps me going. You are a larger part of this than I think you know; I always know that you’ve Got My 6, Hooah. My mother for instilling in me a belief that I can accomplish my dreams and a resilient work ethic. My siblings for your continued support, love, and belief in me. My friends for their understanding and assistance with this process; the laughter, tears, and unwavering support was always welcomed and extremely appreciated. I would like to thank Dr. CR for his assistance, guidance, encouragement, and support throughout this project. I would also like to acknowledge the treatment center for their trust in me and their support in completing this study. Table of Contents List of Tables .......................................................................................................................v Chapter 1: Introduction to the Study ....................................................................................1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................1 Background ....................................................................................................................2 Problem Statement .........................................................................................................3 Purpose of the Study ......................................................................................................7 Research Question and Hypotheses ...............................................................................7 Theoretical Framework ..................................................................................................8 Nature of Study ..............................................................................................................9 Types and Sources of Data ..........................................................................................10 Definitions ....................................................................................................................10 Assumptions .................................................................................................................12 Scope and Delimitations ..............................................................................................13 Limitations ...................................................................................................................13 Significance and Social Change ...................................................................................14 Summary ......................................................................................................................15 Chapter 2: Literature Review .............................................................................................16 Introduction ..................................................................................................................16 Literature Search Strategy ............................................................................................17 Theoretical Framework ................................................................................................17 Logotherapy Application ...................................................................................... 21 i Logotherapy Measures .......................................................................................... 25 Existentialism ........................................................................................................ 25 Literature Review .........................................................................................................27 Substance Use Disorders and Comorbidities ........................................................ 27 Transdiagnostic Factors ........................................................................................ 28 Substance Use Disorder and Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment .......................... 34 Meaning and Purpose ...................................................................................................36 Meaning ................................................................................................................ 37 Purpose .................................................................................................................