Smartest Doc
Adolescent substance misuse: an update on behaviours and treatments
Advances in Psychiatric Treatment, 07/03/2012
McArdle P et al. – Substance misuse remains relatively common among adolescents. It can be conceptualised as one manifestation of a broader conduct problem or disinhibitory syndrome that is genetically transmitted. Some substances, notably alcohol, have potential direct effects on brain development. Availability of substances is a necessary condition for use, and recent marketing developments have unleashed a range of new agents. Nevertheless, there is considerable scope for prevention, brief intervention, pharmacological and more elaborate psychosocial treatments.