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Abstract: 

Adolescent substance abuse has been a public health concern for decades, but the scientific knowledge base on effective treatment for adolescent girls is just beginning to take shape. Researchers and practitioners have made great strides over the past decade in understanding the unique biology of adolescence and recognizing the ways in which abuse and even occasional use of psychoactive substances during this period can contribute to far-reaching harmful consequences. This article begins with an overview of the nature of substance use problems among adolescent girls. Next is a review of the substance abuse treatments showing the most promise for this population. A discussion of key treatment service issues follows. The article concludes with suggestions for future research in the areas of treatment development and service delivery.

Keywords: prescription medications; cigarette smoking; STDs, traumatic injuries, decreased hardiness, psychiatric problems, and conduct problems; treatment incitation; interpersonal relationships; comorbidity; sexual victimization; Seeking Safety; VOICES; Ther

Affiliations:  1: National Institute on Drug Abuse; 2: National Institute of Mental Health; 3: National Institute on Drug Abuse.