Introduction: This study examines the relationship of adolescent alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and comorbidity of other illicit drug use disorders and behavioral disorders with service utilization in alcohol/drug (AD) and juvenile justice (JJ) sectors of care. Method: Participants were 1030 adolescents ages 13-18 (M=15.88; SD=1.56). Two-thirds were male, 33% were Caucasian, 32% Latino, 21% African-American, 7% Asian/Pacific-Islander. Youth report on the Composite International Diagnostic Interview - Substance Abuse Module was used to assess use, abuse, and dependence of alcohol, cannabis, stimulants, and hallucinogens. Conduct Disorder (CD) was assessed by youth and parent report using the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children-IV. We obtained caregiver report of service utilization using the Services Assessment for Children and Adolescents. Results: We found that for adolescents, having an AUD was significantly associated with outpatient AD specialty service utilization (p<.05) and JJ sector involvement (p<.01) even when controlling for the effect of the comorbidities of CD and other illicit drug use disorders. Also, youth who received inpatient and/or residential AD specialty services were more likely to be older, and have a diagnosis of CD and a stimulant use disorder (X2(12)=40.85, p<.001) Implications: The relationship of AUDs, CD, and other illicit drug use disorders to service utilization is complex and varies in relation to type of substance use disorder and type of service sector involvement. Providers should consider the treatment of alcohol use disorders in addition to illicit drug use disorders and CD in order to deliver the most appropriate services to high-risk youth. See www.casrc.org
Learning Objectives: During this session, faculty will present research findings regarding the importance of alcohol use disorders in relation to conduct disorder, illicit substance use, and public service utilization.
Keywords: Adolescents, Alcohol
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.