Reviews the theoretical and empirical bases from which inferences regarding addictive smoking in adolescence can be drawn. It appears that although a significant proportion of teenage smokers do progress to dependence, this is not an inevitable outcome for all adolescent smokers. More research is needed in this area, specifically in measurement…

The heritability of substance dependence (SD) liability is based on polymorphisms at the genes that are likely to be related to the function of the central nervous system. We have recently shown an association between the dopamine D5 receptor gene and SD liability. We report herein a replication of this association in an independent case-control…

Study assessed whether differences exist in levels of psychological distress in abused, chemically dependent adolescents when compared to non-abused counterparts, and non-abused, non-chemically dependent adolescents. Results indicated abused adolescents demonstrated more severe levels of distress, and earlier onset of alcohol and drug use.…

Tests validity of the Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory (SASSI) in detecting chemical dependency in adolescents (n=107), when compared to the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) results. Further validation for the SASSI was obtained. Treatment implications and suggestions for further research are provided. (SNR)

Previous research suggests that self-derogation/rejection and peer factors are strongly related to adolescent substance use. However, much less is known about the role and significance of these risk factors in the escalation of drug use over time. In the current study, we examined whether early reports of self-derogation and peer approval…

Using longitudinal analysis, examines the interactive relationship among parent drug use, bonding to parents, and child substance use in families (N=150) headed by substance abusers. Results indicate that substance use prevention in children of substance abusers should focus both on reducing parent drug use and on promoting bonding to abstinent…

Describes qualitative and ethnographic investigation based on structured interviews and observation of 14 college students from chemically dependent, dysfunctional, and sexually abusive families. Sexual abuse was found to be endemic in this subculture. Suggests counseling strategy to assist moving students through role development and toward…

The Problem Recognition Questionnaire (PRQ), administered to 234 adolescents undergoing chemical dependency treatment, was examined with respect to its reliability, factor structure, and predictive validity. Results indicate that the PRQ (a measure of adolescent motivation to change substance-use behaviors) has acceptable reliability and potential…

Foster care children (N=27), ages 1-29 months, who were exposed in-utero to cocaine and other drugs were evaluated for neurodevelopmental status, caregiver sensitivity, and other factors. Findings indicate that 28% were at risk for cognitive delay and over half exhibited suspect or abnormal neurological signs. Implications for intervention,…