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Evaluating the Perceived Helpfulness of a Family Night Program for Adolescent Substance Abusers

NCJ Number
186613
Journal
Journal of Child & Adolescent Substance Abuse Volume: 10 Issue: 1 Dated: 2000 Pages: 51-67
Author(s)
Richard A. Risberg M.A.; Rodney R. Funk B.S.
Editor(s)
Vincent B. Van Hasselt Ph.D., Brad Donohue Ph.D.
Date Published
2000
Length
17 pages
Annotation
Recognizing a significant factor in the successful recovery process of adolescent substance abusers is family involvement in the treatment experience, this study investigated whether participant needs were met by a family night program for residential and outpatient clients.
Abstract
Data were gathered between February and July 1998 from 322 family night questionnaires completed at a midwestern facility, Chestnut Health Systems, that offered both residential and outpatient substance abuse services for adolescents between 12 and 18 years of age. Participant responses indicated increased satisfaction with the program was associated with increased participation and with perceptions that the presented material related to their respective family problems. As the level of perceived benefit from the program increased, participant confidence in dealing with a child's problems increased. Implications of the findings for increasing the efficacy of family night programs are considered. The study questionnaire is appended. 34 references and 1 figure