Technology-Delivered Interventions for Substance Use Among Adolescents

Pediatr Clin North Am. 2019 Dec;66(6):1203-1215. doi: 10.1016/j.pcl.2019.08.009.

Abstract

Unhealthy alcohol and drug use are common among adolescents. A range of evidence-based interventions are available, but are rarely accessed by adolescents because of barriers such as cost, limited dissemination, lack of motivation to change, and logistical obstacles such as lack of transportation. Technology-delivered approaches may facilitate receipt of treatment in this vulnerable population. The limited number of controlled trials in this area present a mixed picture in terms of efficacy. Although sufficient to merit close attention and expanded research, the current literature points to a strong need for larger samples and greater use of rigorous and replicable methods.

Keywords: Adolescence; Brief interventions; Interventions; Review; Substance use; Technology.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior / psychology
  • Humans
  • School Health Services
  • Social Media*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / psychology
  • Substance-Related Disorders / therapy*
  • Telemedicine / methods*
  • Text Messaging*
  • Treatment Outcome