@article{10.22454/FamMed.2026.0072,
author = {Johnson, David J.},
title = {Development of Clinical Judgment in Family Medicine Residents Using Digital Behavioral Health Tools: A Mixed-Methods Study},
journal = {Family Medicine},
volume = {0},
number = {0},
year = {1},
month = {1},
doi = {10.22454/FamMed.2026.0072},
abstract = {Background and Objectives: Family medicine residents increasingly encounter digital behavioral health tools in clinical practice but receive limited structured training on how to evaluate their appropriateness, ethical implications, and fit within primary care workflows. This study examined how resident attitudes and evaluative judgment regarding digital behavioral health tools developed following a longitudinal educational experience.Methods: This convergent mixed-methods study was conducted within a single family medicine residency program from 2023 to 2025. Residents completed pre- and postintervention surveys based on a modified Technology Acceptance Model assessing perceived usefulness, ease of use, attitudes, facilitators, and intention to use digital tools. Qualitative data were derived from structured reflective learning assignments completed during required behavioral health training. Quantitative analyses used descriptive matched pre–post comparisons and effect sizes. Qualitative reflections were analyzed thematically and integrated with survey findings using a joint display.Results: Nineteen residents completed the preintervention survey, and 10 completed matched pre- and postintervention surveys. Small increases were observed in perceived usefulness and intention to use digital tools, while other domains remained stable. Qualitative findings indicated that experiential learning and reflection supported greater discernment, ethical awareness, and selective consideration of digital tools as adjuncts to care rather than routine solutions.Conclusions: Exploratory findings suggest that structured experiential learning and reflection may help residents apply evaluative judgment when considering how digital behavioral health tools complement primary care.},
URL = {https://journals.stfm.org//familymedicine/online-first/johnson-0072/},
eprint = {https://journals.stfm.org//media/gsrbabr0/fammed-2026-0072.pdf},
}