Adolescent Addiction

Training Synopsis

Historically mislabeled as a difficult population, this workshop explores the characteristics of adolescent addiction, the recovery pitfalls, and effective treatment interventions that will engage your young clients.

Core Ideas

Adolescent Addiction is a distinct problem, with biopsychosocial elements unique to this age group, which indicates there are unique treatment implications. This training explores the unique elements of adolescent addiction and discusses the best ways to both prevent and treat it. While the majority of the training addresses substance use, other addictions - gambling, sex, internet, fitness - will be included.

Adolescent Addiction is often guided by cultural, political, and social forces. Adolescent’s are often judged for wanting attention, submitting to peer pressure, or making “stupid” choices, depending on the culture in which the teen is a member. The degree that the addiction is accepted is often based on these influences. This training includes a discussion of these influences, not only in understanding how teen addiction develops, but also how recovery can be snagged or supported by these influences.

This training relates to direct practice, as it aims to help the clinician work with adolescent clients in addressing their addictions. This training topic connects to diversity by discussing how different cultures impact the development of the addiction and how different cultures may affect recovery efforts.

Learning Objectives

1.Participants will learn the differences between the adult and adolescent brain.
2.Participants will explore the principles of addiction and how it affects the adolescent brain.
3.Participants will gather updated assessment tools for this subpopulation.
4. Participants will create improved treatment plans that address the adolescent's unique needs.