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James R. Ciesla, PhD, School of Allied Health Professions, Northern Illinois University, Public and Community Health Programs, DeKalb, IL 60115, 815-753-3409, jciesla@niu.edu
Improving the effectiveness of treatment for chemically dependent adolescents rests on researchers’ ability to understand factors that are associated with successful treatment outcomes. Little research has been published on this topic. The objective of this research is to explore the relationship between sociodemographic, psychological and treatment variables and successful outcomes.
This research is based on data collected between 1997 and 2003 from a follow-up survey of adolescents who successfully completed primary substance abuse treatment at a facility in the Midwestern region of the USA. Each adolescent who indicated willingness to participate by signing consent at the time of discharge was contacted by telephone between three and nine months after they were discharged and were administered a questionnaire. A total of 47.3% (n=473) of the adolescents discharged completed the questionnaire. The researchers obtained copies of the treatment records for each respondent to extract demographic and treatment information to be combined with data from the questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine predictors of positive treatment outcomes. Odds ratios were calculated. Analysis was performed using two dependent variables: complete abstinence and abstinence with isolated use incidences. Three categories of predictor variables were entered into the regression models: demographic, pretreatment severity, treatment-related, and post treatment variables.
In the model using the strictest definition of treatment success as the dependent variable, the number of prior treatment episodes and attendance at support group meetings were significant predictors of abstinence. Active friendships with peers who use drugs was a highly significant predictor in the strict definition model. In the model using the less strict definition of use girls were more likely to report use than their male counterparts, and a history of physical or sexual abuse was also associated with treatment failure. In both models, attendance at support groups and drug use among friends were associated with relapse
This research suggests that for substance abuse treatment to be more effective in this treatment population, specific characteristics of the adolescents must be considered. For example, gender-specific treatment modalities should be given attention. Strategies to encourage positive friendships and availability of support group meetings for adolescents also deserve attention.
Learning Objectives:
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.