Psychiatric inpatient treatment for adolescents

A substantial increase in severely disturbed adolescents, along with the dissemination of relevant clinical theory and research-proven clinical procedures, have resulted in an expanded utilization of hospital treatment for adolescents. More than ever, the clinician needs guidelines for decision-making regarding hospitalization, treatment goals, length of stay, and treatment models. Despite the expense, despite the frustration, and beyond the pain of failure and uncertainty, we are compelled to employ our current knowledge if we are not to waste the many young people who can be brought to productive adulthood through hospital treatment.