[Multisystemic therapy with substance using adolescents: a clinical and research overview]

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Clinical Psychology
• Family Therapy

Context:

• Youth with serious clinical problems often face out-of-home placement.
• Antisocial behavior and substance abuse are significant challenges in youth.
• Family and community-based interventions are increasingly researched.

Purpose:

• To describe Multisystemic Therapy (MST) as a treatment approach.
• To highlight the evidence base for MST's effectiveness.
• To identify target populations and outcomes for MST.

Summary:

• Multisystemic Therapy (MST) is a family and community-based treatment.
• It targets youth with severe clinical problems at risk for out-of-home placement.
• Controlled research confirms MST's efficacy in treating youth antisocial behavior, including substance abuse.

Impact:

• MST offers an effective alternative to out-of-home placements for at-risk youth.
• Evidence supports MST for addressing complex behavioral issues like antisocial behavior and substance abuse.
• This approach leverages family and community systems for therapeutic benefit.