Adolescent Perceptions of Substance Use Problem Resolution and Recovery

A better understanding of adolescent recovery is needed and will create opportunities to enhance recovery-oriented systems of care. The current study surveyed adolescents on behavioral and social indicators, substance use problem resolution and recovery status, and elements of recovery. The most commonly endorsed element of problem resolution was “stop completely,” followed by “not hanging out with friends who use a lot,” and “getting counseling for alcohol/drug use.” Approximately 40% of youth in recovery did not select abstinence as a key element of recovery. Additional research on recovery identity among adolescents is needed to clarify this finding.