NCJ Number
123389
Journal
Journal of Adolescent Chemical Dependency Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Dated: (1990) Pages: 31-52
Date Published
1990
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This discussion of relevant research findings on the clinical assessment of adolescent chemical dependency (ACD) addresses the definition of ACD, clinical domains of assessment, and instrumentation.
Abstract
Although definitions of ACD vary, the traditional disease model of chemical addiction identifies several key features; its symptoms are primary, progressive, and chronic; psychological, behavioral, and biomedical signs are present; and the essential addiction signs and symptoms are generally applicable across all psychoactive substance groups. A model of assessment content areas uses a concentric, three-ring model. The chemical-use problem severity domain, which is at the center of the model, involves signs, symptoms, consequences, and patterns for chemical use. The cluster of variables forming the second ring refers to the onset and maintenance variables that are believed to be drug-use risk factors. The third ring is associated with coexistent mental and behavioral disorders that often accompany chemical involvement. This article provides a table that outlines assessment instruments for ACD. The table is organized according to type of instrument: single-scale screen, multi-scale inventory, and multi-component battery. The screening tools should be viewed as preassessment measures that assist in evaluation referral decisions. 39 references.