At Risk Teens

At risk teens and the interactive behavior behind at risk teens is a major concern for treatment centers that have established programs for adolescents to compliment their adult facilitated recovery programs. At risk teens have a far greater potential of becoming chemically dependent than other teenagers. Any teenager no matter how involved in social or academic activities, solid family structure, community, church or anything else considered to be a positive growth influence can be one of the millions of at risk teens blending in with our society. What are the red flags involved with the developing behavior of at risk teens? What is the role of the family and what degree of involvement is necessary to lessen the dangers assumed by at risk teens? What can be done when the teenager is past the point of being “at risk” and has entered into the early phases of addiction and destructive behavior patterns?

The origins that create at risk teens can vary. Lack of supervision or attention can create an absence of positive role models. Peer pressure groups , relationships, drug and or alcohol dependency within the family, the physical and emotional damage of child abuse, or simply the day to day pressures of growing out of childhood while failing to be recognized as an adult are all components that contribute to the mental make up of at risk teens. It is not always easy to tell the difference between normal adolescent behavior and serious trouble. The most stable adolescent transition can be considered turbulent at best. Physical changes occur rapidly making it hard for the teenager to adjust. They feel out of control and abnormal.

The valid argument that teenagers are naturally rebellious can also be a factor when teamed with peer pressure from negative role models. Family members will begin to notice what is referred to as “peer group drift” within the social habits of the teenager. This happens when at risk teens begin to seek out new types of friends, switching positive influences for negative ones. They become more secretive and less detailed about discussing where they are spending their free time and who they are spending it with. Trouble starts to begin at school with less motivation reserved for studies and school functions. Inner strife can culminate within the teenager creating an aggressive attitude causing a greater frequency of violent confrontations with friends and peers. Another form of magnified rebellious behavior associated with at risk teens can be a complete separation from all family and social activities. The teenager becomes much too comfortable spending increased amounts of time alone and begins to isolate. His or her overall disposition can often become very pensive and removed.

It is when the rebellious nature becomes problematic, (constant fighting, conflict with peers, isolating, etc.), that methods of treatment need to be sought out by members of the family. Treatment centers for at risk teens can provide a structured environment that allows the adolescent or young adult the opportunity to seek out positive role models and learn the coping skills that are required for a smooth transition into adult life. The family should involve themselves as much as possible in the recovery process by attending group counseling and keeping informed on the progress of the teenager’s daily rehabilitation. This will provide both the teenager and the family with the educational tools that are essential to keep moving in a positive direction.

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