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Principles of Adolescent Substance Use Disorder Treatment: A Research-Based Guide

NCJ Number
245008
Date Published
January 2014
Length
42 pages
Annotation
This resource guide provides information on the unique realities of adolescent substance use and the special treatment needs for people aged 12 to 17.
Abstract
The information in the guide is presented in four primary sections. The first main section lists 13 principles of adolescent substance use disorder treatment that include 1) adolescent substance use needs to be identified and addressed as soon as possible; 2) substance use disorder treatment should be tailored to the unique needs of the adolescent; 3) behavioral therapies are effective in addressing adolescent substance use; and 4) families and the community are important aspects of treatment. The next main section of the guide contains a list of frequently asked questions, while the final two sections present information on treatment settings and evidence-based approaches to treating adolescent substance use disorders. The treatment settings discussed in the guide are outpatient/intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, and residential/inpatient treatment. The evidence-based approaches to treating adolescent substance use include behavioral approaches, family-based approaches, addiction medications, and recovery support services. The guide also includes a list of treatment referral resources. 78 references