What Adolescents Need to Prevent Relapse after Treatment for Substance Abuse: A Comparison of Youth, Parent, and Staff Perspectives

OBJECTIVE: Little is known about what factors and supports youths identify as important for their sustained recovery after substance abuse treatment, and if their caregivers and treatment staff identify similar needs. The purpose of this study was to explore what youths, caregivers, and staff perceive as important to remain substance free after completing a residential treatment program. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 adolescents, 30 parents, and 29 staff at 3 treatment agencies. Data were coded thematically and themes were organized by respondent type. RESULTS: There was high frequency and concordance across respondents regarding the need for aftercare services, supportive relationships, and activities. Only one item, outpatient treatment, demonstrated significant differences across groups. CONCLUSIONS: External supports and activities are important to recovery of adolescents from substances following treatment completion. Implications and potential areas of inquiry are discussed.