Helping Substance Dependent Youth with Social Phobia through Service

• In Event: Innovations in Youth Services

Abstract

This study explores the use of illicit drugs with the condition of social phobia, the impact of social phobia on 12-step participation during treatment, and likelihood of abstinence in the high-risk 6 months following treatment discharge. The current study is based on a sample of 195 juveniles (50% female, aged 14-18 years) court-referred to an 8-week alcohol and drug intensive residential treatment program based on the 12-step model of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Measures were taken at intake and discharge. Social phobia was associated with more attempted suicides, lifetime trauma experiences, committed felonies, greater poly-substance use, and earlier age of first use. Findings suggest that social phobia does not hinder youth treatment progress and 12-step participation, although 12-step activities like service that do not expose social phobia youth to public scrutiny appear more popular. Results showed that high engagement in AA-related helping during treatment reduced risk of relapse and incarceration in the 6 months following treatment, and was particularly helpful in helping youth with social phobia stay sober.

Authors

• Byron Roger Johnson, Baylor University

• Maria E. Pagano, Case Western Reserve University

• Matthew T. Lee, University of Akron