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Parenting Blogs - BlogCatalog Blog Directory

Easy Test to Determine Problem Drinking Among Teens

Harvard University professors have devised a simple test for teenagers to determine if their drinking or drug use is out of control.

The "CRAFT" test looks like this:
C (CAR) - have you ever driven a car after using drugs or alcohol? Have you ever been a passenger in a car driven by someone who had used drugs and alcohol?

R (RELAX) - Do you use a alcohol or drugs to feel better about yourself, to fit in, or to relax?

A (ALONE) - Do you use substances like drugs or alcohol by yourself?

F (FORGET) - After you used drugs or alcohol, do you ever forget what you did?

T (TROUBLE) - After you used drugs or alcohol, have you ever gotten into trouble?
Teens who answered yes to two or more questions either have or are at risk for developing a substance abuse problem. These teens (or someone who cares about them) would be wise to investigate options for the treatment of teen substance abuse issues.

Labels: teenage_drinking, teen_drug_use

Posted By: Aspen/CRC

Comments:

Barry Lessin on 11/17/2010
This self-test is also great way for parents to get a better understanding the importance of negative consequences in determining whether their child has a problem with substance abuse. Kids usually will focus on the frequency or amount of their use as proof that there isnt a problem. I find with my clients that a general discussion of the potential consequences of getting high and whether any of their friends have experienced them is a good start to have him /her thinking about the issue in a different way. This test is something I will use as tool in my work with the kids I see in my counseling practice. Barry Lessin, M.Ed., CACD www.barrylessin.com