Helping Adolescents at Risk: Prevention of Multiple Problem Behaviors

Written by leading authorities, this comprehensive volume reviews current knowledge about multiple problem behaviors in adolescence, focusing on "what works" in prevention and treatment. Cutting-edge research is presented on the epidemiology, development, and social costs of four youth problems that frequently co-occur: serious antisocial behavior, drug and alcohol misuse, tobacco smoking, and risky sexual behavior. A framework for reducing these behaviors is outlined, drawing on both clinical and public health perspectives, and empirically supported prevention and treatment programs are identified. Also addressed are ways to promote the development, dissemination, and effective implementation of research-based intervention practices.

Anthony Biglan, PhD, is Senior Scientist at Oregon Research Institute, where he conducts research on the prevention of child and adolescent problem behavior and on the childrearing practices that affect child and adolescent development. His current work focuses on contextual analyses of childrearing practices in communities.

Patricia A. Brennan, PhD, is on the faculty of the Department of Psychology at Emory University. Her research interests include the study of etiological factors of aggression and violence from a biological perspective, and parental psychopathology (depression/schizophrenia) and its effect on child diagnostic, neurological, and behavioral outcomes.

Sharon L. Foster, PhD, is Professor in the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University. Dr. Foster is the author of three books as well as numerous articles and book chapters on children's peer relations, assessment and treatment of parent–adolescent conflict, and research methodology.

Harold D. Holder, PhD, is Senior Research Scientist at the Prevention Research Center, Berkeley, California. His research has explored two major areas: prevention of alcohol problems and costs and benefits of alcoholism treatment. Dr. Holder was the 1995 recipient of the Jellinek Memorial Award for his research on social and economic factors in alcohol consumption.