Characteristics and Outcomes of College Age Adults Enrolled in Private, Residential Treatment: Implications for Practice
Abstract: Substance use among college age adults is of interest due to high levels of use and low levels of treatment access and engagement relative to other adults. Data collected from 1,972 clients in residential services were analyzed to investigate differences in use patterns, treatment outcomes and other life area problems. Participants completed an Addiction Severity Index (ASI) and the University of Rhode Island Change Assessment (URICA) at baseline, and an ASI and Treatment Services Review at 1 and 6-month post-discharge interviews. Almost a quarter (24.1%) of participants were college age (18-25 years old). They were more likely to be Caucasian, male, and less likely to complete treatment although they had a longer average length of stay. College age adults improved on all outcome measures and post-treatment service use shows a significant difference between college age and older participants. Implications for practice are discussed.
By:
- Samuel MacMaster, PhD, University of Tennessee
- Siobhan A. Morse, MHSA, Foundations Recovery Network
Accepted for publication in Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions
