Multisystemic Treatment of Substance Abusing and Dependent Juvenile Delinquents: Effects on School Attendance at Posttreatment and 6-Month Follow-Up

The effectiveness of multisystemic therapy (MST) in promoting school participation among substance abusing and dependent juvenile offenders with high rates of psychiatric comorbidity was examined. Youth were randomly assigned to receive MST versus usual community-based services. Results indicated that MST (but not usual services) significantly increased school attendance at posttreatment, and that these treatment gains were maintained at the 6-month follow-up assessment. Explanations for the findings and directions for future research are discussed.