THE VALIDITY OF BEHAVIORAL-DATA REPORTED BY INJECTION-DRUG USERS ON ACLINICAL RISK ASSESSMENT

The validity of drug and sexual behavior data collected by drug user t reatment staff using a short clinical risk assessment among 387 inject ion drug users is evaluated using in-depth, confidential interview pro cess. Moderate to high agreement levels were found for most, but not a ll, variables. Participants consistently reported less risky behaviors on the clinical risk assessment than on the in-depth interview. More easily recalled information can be accurately gathered through a short clinical risk assessment. However, in-depth, confidential interviewin g is important when gathering self-reports of the frequency of drug an d sexual behaviors.