Treatnet Family is a science-informed training package on elements of family therapy, intended to support practitioners in the health, social and criminal justice sectors who work with youth and their families in resource limited settings.
Access the Open Access article here.
Studies that used evidence-based family therapies have demonstrated significant effects in reducing adolescent drug use and delinquent behaviours, and in reducing comorbid mental health problems. However, almost all these studies were conducted in high-income countries.
The overall aim of the present study was to explore the effect of United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime’s (UNODC) Treatnet Family (TF) in reducing substance consumption, drug-related activities, reducing mental health problems, and in improving family interaction among adolescents with substance-use problems.
Method
Nineteen adolescents with substance-use problems and their parents/family members participated in TF. They completed a set of questionnaires. These questionnaires measure substance use, family functioning, mental health problems, and life events. The quetionnaires were given at pre-, post-intervention, as well as at a one month-follow-up assessment.
Results
TF had a positive significant impact in reducing alcohol use among adolescents with substance-use problems.
The number of adolescents who smoked cigarettes and marijuana, and used amphetamines reduced across time. After participating in TF, the adolescents were involved with significantly fewer friends who consumed substances and participated in antisocial behaviours. Furthermore, parent/family member reported a significant decrease in mental health problems, and positive changes in adolescent’s behaviours.
Conclusion
The TF had a positive impact in reducing alcohol consumption and problems related to substance consumption among adolescents with substance-use problems when delivered by practitioners in routine community settings.
