Multiple family therapy for adolescents: a case illustration

Psychiatric hospitalization of adolescents is on the rise, with the concurrent trend toward shorter stays and increased need for expedient, effective treatment modalities. Involving families or troubled adolescents in all phases of treatment is believed to be essential and aids both in successful reintegration of the patient into the community and prevention of relapse. Psychiatric nurses can practice innovative therapies to meet the needs of hospitalized adolescents and their families. Clinical observations have shown multiple family therapy for adolescents to be a valuable component of care.