The MAVERICK study is examining the relationship between PTSD symptoms and cannabis use in military veterans.
During this study, researchers will examine the data they receive from veterans through surveys, data from their phones, fitness devices, and engagement with a new mobile app to better understand how PTSD and substance use are connected.
Participating in this research study may help researchers make continued improvements to this new app for veterans. Your participation may also help improve treatments and care plans for veterans with PTSD and/or substance use.
This research is being run by researchers at the University of Southern California.
Why is this study being done?
The purpose of this research is to understand how certain forms of data, such as passive data collected from your phone (e.g., phone usage), data collected from fitness devices (Fitbits or Apple Watches), and data collected from you, can help researchers understand the interplay between post-traumatic stress symptoms and substance use.
Is this study for me?
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria:
- Discharged from military service within the past 5 years
- Have symptoms of post-traumatic stress
- 18+ Years Old
- Have a smartphone & internet access
- Used cannabis within the last month
- Not currently receiving treatment for mental health or substance use concerns
This screening survey will help us determine your eligibility for the study. If you are eligible and get enrolled in the study, you will have the opportunity to complete all portions of the study.
What will happen if I participate in this study?
This study involves completing brief surveys twice per day for 90 days, as well as three longer surveys: one at the beginning of the study, at one month later, and at three months later.
You will download a mobile app (MAVERICK) developed by our research team, that will collect basic data from your phone, such as accelerometer data, GPS data, and phone activity data. We will either provide you with a Fitbit or ask that you use your own fitness device (either a Fitbit or an Apple Watch) and allow the mobile app to collect data from this device such as physical activity, sleep data, and heart rate. We ask that you wear this device on each day, including at night, to allow for data collection.
Will I be paid for being in this study?
You will be compensated for all aspects of this study. You will receive a $20 gift card of your choosing (e.g., Target, Amazon, Starbucks) for the baseline survey you complete. We will also send you a $20 gift card for each of the follow-up surveys ($80 total in gift cards for the online surveys). We will then give you $1 per day for completing the two daily surveys (90 days total).
Total compensation for completing all aspects of the study: $170 in gift cards.
Will it cost me anything to be in this study?
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
Who can I contact for more information?
Please contact us with any questions you have about the study at USCMav@usc.edu.