BRIDGING THEORY, RESEARCH AND PRACTICE TO MORE SUCCESSFULLY ENGAGE SUBSTANCE-ABUSING YOUTH AND THEIR FAMILIES INTO THERAPY

This article aims to bridge the gap between systems theory, clinical research and clinical practice in order to more successfully address family interactional patterns that prevent families with a substance abusing youth from entering treatment. Important developments in family systems thinking that provide the foundation for working with hard to reach families are reviewed, specific family interactional patterns that appear to be obstacles to engagement are presented, and practical strategies for overcoming these obstacles are recommended.