Adolescent addiction: What parents need?

This study developed an understanding of the experiences of parents whose adolescent children became dependent on alcohol and / or drugs. A qualitative review explored the process that parents experienced, how they sought intervention and the ways in which support systems aided or hindered. Thirty one parents or caregivers of 21 adolescents were interviewed. All were in a long term recovery program and were diagnosed with a substance dependence disorder. Results showed that parents were typically about 2 years behind in their knowledge and had frequently been diverted into other possible explanations for the child's behaviors. Other themes were identified and recommendations for clinical practice are made. (C) 2011 Published by Elsevier Ltd. Selection and/or peer-review under responsibility of the 2nd World Conference on Psychology, Counselling and Guidance.