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Essay by peytonsykesCollege, UndergraduateA+, November 2014

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Peyton Sykes

McCall

Psychology

21 November 2014

Substance abuse has been an issue for teenagers across the United States for decades. Laurie Chassin writes a journal about substance abuse among young offenders in the Juvenile Justice system and emphasizes the importance of diagnosing these problems, which come together between continued offending and with a large range with negative effects. Some examples of this are smoking, unsafe sexual behavior, violence, and poor educational outcomes. Chassin suggests how we are in need of more aftercare services including, develop treatment models that integrate and coordinate multiple services for the offenders.

As I was reading this article, I learned that teenagers in Drug Court are mostly involved with alcohol, marijuana, and have been involved with the Juvenile system more than once. Also teenagers have co-occurring mental health problems as well as family histories of substance abuse or criminal justice involvement or both.

Drug Court's try to resolve family issues and regain family relationships. I understand that there are cautious steps adults also need to take when approaching teenagers about their substance abuse problem. Since teenagers have a desire to rebel against authority, they will feel victimized and turn their backs against help.

After reading this article I agree with Laurie Chassin because everyone needs a little peer encouragement in life. Getting addicted to drugs or alcohol at a young age can be solved when first detected. Instead of being a bum on the street or a prostitute selling their body for drug money, teens need to admit they have a problem and seek help. Teenagers having the appropriate programs and methods towards sobriety will help them live a better, healthy, and successful life. Teenage drug use has majorly increased in the last seven years. I agree that certain steps...