Examined linkages between novelty seeking, as defined by C. Cloninger (1986), harm avoidance, and reward dependence dimensions and risky sexual behavior among 200 boys in treatment for substance abuse and delinquency compared to 200 boys recruited from the community. Analyses indicate that differences in personality failed to account for observed…

Many youth use substances and engage in other high-risk behaviors in an attempt to allay the emptiness accompanying broken belongings. Schools can play important roles in fostering connections and creating the natural high that comes from success. (Author)

A surge in adolescent alcohol and illicit drug use during the 1990s triggered renewed calls for evidence-based intervention programs and sparked an unprecedented federal investment in treatment-related adolescent research. This article discusses some of the major findings of this research with particular reference to their implications for the…

Investigates the association between personality disorder (PD) and substance use among adolescents in the United States and Greece. Results indicated that adolescents with PDs reported more frequent alcohol consumption than did those without PDs. Differences were not observed in the prevalence of alcohol use, cigarette use, or PDs as a function of…

Examines factors predicting participant engagement in a parent-centered, substance abuse preventive intervention. Results indicate that caregiver need for the intervention and family systems variables significantly predicted initial engagement in the intervention, while demographic variables, stressful life circumstances, and family stress failed…

Describes a regional substance abuse prevention coalition in Southeast Alaska that has thoroughly integrated a youth/adult partnership model. The principles and key components of the partnership model are described, followed by an overview of how this model has been incorporated at the community level, and some of the lessons learned. (Contains 41…

Analyzes potential role of computer-assisted strategies in substance abuse prevention efforts. Discusses substance abuse prevention in context of adolescent development. Defines computer-assisted instruction in terms of opportunities it represents for substance abuse prevention. Describes barriers to address and makes recommendations for…

Examined psychological correlates of sexual abuse in adolescent girls (N=597) at substance abuse inpatient facilities. Found high prevalence of sexual abuse victimization with over one-third acknowledging history of sexual abuse. Suggests sexual abuse victims show slightly different and often more serious psychopathology with suicidal ideation,…

A survey conducted by the American Management Association on workplace-testing policies included questions about drug testing, polygraphs, and testing for the human immunodeficiency virus. The survey found that testing increased from 21 percent in 1986 to 37 percent in 1987 and 48 percent in the 1988 survey. (JOW)

Discusses how music, occupational, and recreation therapies can contribute to comprehensive treatment programs for chemical dependency. Sees prime contribution of activity therapy as lying in nature of experiential education, applying insight gained in counseling sessions and discussion groups to practical real-life situations. (Author/NB)

Evaluated effectiveness of instruction and presentation format of course on alcohol consumption and safe driving given to individuals convicted of first offense of driving while under the influence. Results showed that instructional information significantly increased clients' knowledge of alcohol and drug abuse and safe driving; course did not…

Presents a blueprint for developing a consistent drug-and-alcohol-use policy that has been used nationwide by school systems to fit their own local circumstances. (MLF)

Compares community substance abuse programs that have worked with some that have not by applying principles from complex systems theory and ideas from learning communities. (JOW)

Harm reduction, a new model in the field of drug education, recognizes that people have always and always will use drugs. The new strategy attempts to minimize the potential hazards associated with drug use rather than the use itself. The rationale is presented as well as an example of needs assessment. (Author/JPS)

Explores the role of the college student peer counselor as a complement to the student affairs support services in the area of alcohol and substance abuse. The author discusses a viable student peer counseling model which integrates readily available assistance from college student affairs services and the skills of a trained student peer…