NCJ Number
215010
Journal
Youth Studies Australia Volume: 25 Issue: 2 Dated: June 2006 Pages: 25-32
Date Published
June 2006
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article describes the BEST Plus program, an Australian whole-of-family therapy option for families to address substance abuse issues, as well as antisocial adolescent behaviors.
Abstract
The BEST Plus program typically shows positive progress in self-care and confidence comparable to that of the family described. However, the intensity and longevity of the adolescent difficulties families have experienced can affect the rate of adolescent progress, as well as family factors, such as parental mental health and parenting disagreement. In response to the concerns expressed by families and parents regarding their adolescent’s substance abuse, the eight-session BEST curriculum was developed. The program uses an evidence-based strategy that can be implemented widely in the community. It is an engaging curriculum which assists families in reducing adolescent behavior problems. The eight sessions are conducted over 8 weeks using a family system approach in treating drug addiction and associated problematic behavior. This paper provides a description of each session within the BEST Plus program structure. To explore the therapeutic process, the paper follows a family’s journey through the program and records their progress through each session. References