4. Translating Neuroscience into Addiction Prevention: A Delphi Consensus Study

In contrast to a growing body of research that applies the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) framework for addiction assessment and treatment, limited studies apply this perspective to preventive interventions. This study aims to reach a consensus among experts in the field of addiction prevention on the 'primary' domains of functioning and constructs most relevant to develop a holistic neuroscience-based addiction prevention program for adolescents

A group of minimum 20 addiction experts with relevant research experience in adolescent addiction prevention, will be recruited through expert networks affiliated with the International Society of Addiction Medicine (ISAM). The Delphi technique will be used to ascertain level (>80%) of agreement between experts on the importance of each RDoC domain and/or construct in understanding the essential components considered within a holistic neuroscience-based prevention program.

By establishing expert consensus, domains and constructs endorsed by experts are considered as 'primary' to be embedded at the front-line of holistic neuroscience-based prevention programs developed for adolescents.

This endeavour has been established in collaboration with international expert communities who play critical role in translating neuroscience of addiction to prevention interventions. Application of the Delphi framework could lead to the development of more harmonized prevention programs for addiction.