Reducing alcohol use among young women

Juvenile Justice Digest, Oct 12, 2001

A 10-week program run by the University at Buffalo's Research Institute on Addictions is showing promise in curbing alcohol abuse among teens and young women. The approach focuses on teaching techniques and strategies for reducing alcohol consumption.

The program, geared toward early-stage problem drinkers, includes 10 weekly, two-hour outpatient sessions conducted in small groups of three to six women and led by two female therapists. "Target exercises" or homework assignments were provided for the first nine treatment sessions that include practicing drinking-reduction strategies, identifying high-risk situations, and weekly self-- monitoring of alcohol consumption.

Inf.: Kathleen M. Weaver, University at Buffalo, Research Institute on Addictions, Public Communications Office, 1021 Main Street, Buffalo, New York 14203; 716-887-- 2585; e-mail, weaver@ria.buffalow.edu.