This practice-based guide gives readers a comprehensive overview of the many issues related to adolescent substance use. The book illustrates the basic etiology and epidemiology of addiction, as well as the specific concerns surrounding prevention, assessment, intervention, and recovery when working with youths. The author makes a conscious effort to address topics central to the lives of youths and adolescents that are often overlooked in more general substance use books. This includes considerations of specific youth populations, and the influence of different youth environments from family and high school to college campuses. The book also provides a rare look at the long-term recovery process with information about community-based systems of care like alternative peer groups, and recovery mentorship programs.

Holleran Steiker focuses on the lived experiences of adolescents. Theoretical frameworks and recent research findings are presented, but always within the context of working directly with youths and their families. She ultimately brings together personal, professional, and research perspectives to produce an honest and empirically sound volume that will appeal to both students and practitioners.