What is PAWS?
PAWS is a research project exploring an AI-supported digital intervention for young people with cannabis use disorder.
PAWS: a digital intervention research project
PAWS explores how an AI-supported digital intervention could support young people with cannabis use disorder between clinical encounters.
I am developing this work with Xuhai “Orson” Xu, PhD, at Columbia. My contribution focuses on the clinical questions, developmentally appropriate intervention design, and evaluation of outcomes.
Project stage
PAWS is an investigational project in development. Intended features and proposed studies should be distinguished from clinical capabilities and outcomes demonstrated through evaluation.
For the current research stage and collaboration opportunities, contact me about PAWS. See also the research support overview.
Research questions
- How can a conversational interface deliver developmentally appropriate support for behavior change?
- What patterns of use and engagement would make this approach useful between clinical encounters?
- How should clinicians supervise the intervention and respond when human assessment is needed?
- What evidence would establish feasibility, safety, and clinical benefit?
Proposed approach
The proposed intervention draws on motivational interviewing and behavioral treatment principles. Functions under consideration include brief check-ins, individualized coping support, and structured communication with clinicians.
Development and evaluation would need to examine the quality of responses, engagement, clinician oversight, and participant outcomes. The project description does not establish efficacy or an autonomous crisis-response capability.
Related work
My research on cannabis-use frequency and adolescent functioning and nondisordered cannabis use informs the clinical questions. The MIND dashboard publication is related work on clinical information presentation.
Research program · Sultan Lab · Curriculum vitae
Frequently asked questions
Is PAWS an established clinical treatment?
PAWS is investigational. The intended functions and proposed studies described here require development and evaluation.
How can I discuss the project?
Contact Dr. Sultan about research collaboration for current project information.
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