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

by National Institute of Drug Abuse (Author)

"Principles of Adolescent Substance Use Disorder Treatment" focuses on the unique realities of adolescent substance use-which includes abuse of illicit and prescription drugs, alcohol, and tobacco-and the special treatment needs for people aged 12 to 17. The adolescent years are a key window for both substance use and the development of substance use disorders. Brain systems governing emotion and reward-seeking are fully developed by this time, but circuits governing judgment and self-inhibition are still maturing, causing teenagers to act on impulse, seek new sensations, and be easily swayed by their peers-all of which may draw them to take risks such as trying drugs of abuse. What is more, because critical neural circuits are still actively forming, teens' brains are particularly susceptible to being modified by those substances in a lasting way-making the development of a substance use disorder much more likely. In addition, abusing drugs during adolescence can interfere with meeting crucial social and developmental milestones and also compromise cognitive development. Historically the focus with adolescents has tended to be on steering young people clear of drugs before problems arise. But the reality is that different interventions are needed for adolescents at different places along the substance use spectrum, and some require treatment, not just prevention. Scientific research has now established the efficacy of a number of treatment approaches that can address substance use during the teen years. This guide describes those approaches, as well as presents a set of guiding principles and frequently asked questions about substance abuse and treatment in this age group.