Date Approved
2021
Degree Type
Open Access Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department or School
Psychology
Committee Member
Claudia Drossel, PhD, PhD
Committee Member
Adam M. Briggs, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA-MI
Committee Member
Angela D. Staples, PhD
Abstract
Clinical judgments of capacity have implications for the rights of the individual being assessed. While supported decision-making is recommended, it is not clear whether laypeople have sufficient knowledge to advocate for maximizing the autonomy of the person they assist. This study developed and evaluated a brief, computer-based intervention to increase knowledge about decision-making capacity, using a Solomon four-group design. A convenience sample of 160 participants completed the study via an online survey platform. Knowledge was assessed with a test designed for this study. A 2 x 2 factorial ANOVA found no pre-test sensitization, F(1, 156) = 0.09, p = .77, partial η2 = 0.00056, and suggested a causal relationship between engagement with the educational intervention and improved post-test scores on the knowledge quiz, F(1, 156) = 6.71, p < .05, partial η2 = .04. Computer-based interventions may be an effective means of disseminating knowledge about decision-making capacity to the public.
Recommended Citation
Zohr, Samantha J., "Assessing and improving knowledge of medical decision-making capacity" (2021). Master's Theses and Doctoral Dissertations. 1210.
https://commons.emich.edu/theses/1210