Residential Facilities for Treating Substance Abuse Problems Among Adolescents in the United States

• NCJ Number: 107073
• Author(s): P M Johnson; D M Pappenfort
• Date Published: 1987
• Length: 108 pages
• Grant Number(s): 85-JN-CX-0017
• Sponsoring Agency: US Securities and Exchange Cmssn
• Corporate Author: University of Chicago
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Using 1981-1982 data from a national survey of residential group care programs for children and youth, this report analyzes programs for children with alcohol and drug abuse problems.

Abstract

In 1981, 62 such facilities were identified, most operated by private organizations. Criteria for hiring staff used by most facilities included formal education; appropriateness for position; previous experiences, particularly with children; and personal experiences similar to youth in the program. In most facilities, child care workers were involved in supervision, living arrangements, and all forms of treatment and planning. Of residents, 68.8 percent were male, nearly 50 percent were 16 to 17 years old, and about 75 percent were white. In addition to drug and alcohol abuse, the large majority of residents showed emotional disturbance and behavior problems, difficulties in peer relationships, and family problems. Regular group or individual therapy was provided to residents by 85 percent of facilities, with social workers being the most frequently employed professionals. Counseling techniques used covered a broad spectrum, including reality therapy, peer counseling, behavior therapy, and social casework. 28 footnotes and 57 tables.