Multidimensional family therapy for adolescent drug users : A systematic review

Adolescence is a period in human development during which people are more prone to risk-taking and less prone to impulse control. Some young people experiment with both licit and illicit substances during this time (alcohol, tobacco, cannabis and other drugs) and this can have an impact on their behaviour, their relationships with others and their functioning in society. For the few who develop substance use disorders, family has an important role in addressing this issue. Our report focuses on multidimensional family therapy — a process that includes the young person, their family and their environment. Initial experiments show that this holistic approach delivers promising results during therapy and that these can last after the treatment ends. Five main studies carried out in the United States and the European Union are the starting point for our analysis and discussions. While initial results provided by the studies are promising, it appears important to assure implementation fidelity and family adherence, which in the most critical cases can be difficult. Furthermore, the relatively high cost of such treatment must be considered before recommending its general use