The Role of Social Networks in Harm Reduction Dissemination: Community-Driven Approach

• In Event: 50211 - Community Responses to Drug Use: Grassroots Movements, Mutual Aid, and Harm Reduction

Abstract

The United States faces an unprecedented overdose crisis, with over 107,000 deaths last year primarily driven by synthetic opioids and stimulant use. Despite existing harm reduction initiatives, less than 25% of people with opioid use disorder receive treatment, with significant disparities across demographic groups. This study proposes a novel approach leveraging social networks to improve harm reduction dissemination among people who use drugs (PWUD).
This mixed-methods research employs aggregated relational data (ARD) within a community-engaged framework to characterize PWUD social networks and develop targeted harm reduction dissemination strategies. ARD offers comparable effectiveness to traditional network methods while being more cost-effective. The study has two primary aims: (1) to characterize the social networks of PWUD, identifying trusted connections and broader network characteristics, particularly among high-risk groups, and (2) to design network-based interventions to overcome barriers and optimize resource distribution.
Data collection involves recruiting 1,010 participants through social media, including a targeted subsample of older Black men—a group disproportionately affected by overdose deaths. Participants complete self-report surveys capturing both strong ties (trusted connections) and weak ties (broader acquaintances), assessing comfort with sharing harm reduction resources and willingness to administer naloxone.
This study's significance lies in its potential to shift the harm reduction paradigm by harnessing social network dynamics, recognizing that trusted peers can play pivotal roles in information dissemination and behavior change. By identifying key influencers and understanding information flow barriers within these networks, our current approach aims to increase the reach and adoption of harm reduction initiatives.

Authors

• Ihsan Kahveci, University of Washington

• McKenna Parnes, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington

• Brittany Blanchard, University of Washington

• Tyler McCormick, University of Washington