Questionnaires from methadone patients at three Wenzhou clinics found distorted drug-use beliefs associated with stronger craving, while both independently related to lower refusal self-efficacy. These are psychosocial targets, not proof of reduced relapse.
Key findings
- Distorted beliefs correlated positively with craving, and both acted as parallel negative predictors of refusal self-efficacy. The authors propose combining cognitive restructuring and craving management with medication.
Why this matters globally
Methadone reduces harm and mortality, but psychosocial context still matters. The framework supports care beyond medication and may inform addiction services internationally.
Thai researcher contribution
Two Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University affiliates participated in a China-Thailand team studying psychological dimensions of methadone care.
Limitations to consider
The abstract omits sample size, response rate and scale properties. Purposive cross-sectional data from one city, all self-reported, lack longitudinal relapse outcomes and cannot establish that beliefs causally weaken willpower.