There are now numerous evidence-based alternatives to confrontational counseling, and clinical studies show that more effective substance abuse counselors are those who practice with an empathic, supportive style. It is time to accept that the harsh confrontational practices of the past are generally ineffective, potentially harmful, and professionally inappropriate.

Problematic alcohol use—that is, heavy drinking, or drinking that is accompanied by unpleasant consequences—tends to increase as people go through late adolescence, peaking at about age 22 or so, and then decline as they grow older. Some researchers consider this decline a “maturing out” of problem drinking.

The transitional period between high school and young adulthood is a time of increased alcohol use and abuse, which can have long-term effects on both physical and psychological well-being and may have implications for the attainment of traditional adult roles.

The workplace, as a distinct cultural environment within the larger community, can support or inhibit the development of problem drinking among workers. An understanding of workplace cultural factors is essential for minimizing risks of drinking problems among employees.

A review of the addiction treatment literature reveals a number of key findings related to current administrative discharge practices.

Three decades of scientific research and clinical practice have yielded a variety of effective approaches to drug addiction treatment. Extensive data document that drug addiction treatment is as effective as are treatments for most other similarly chronic medical conditions.

New areas of expertise include the relevant pharmacology, neurobiology, psychiatric and psychological manifestations, and appropriate treatment approaches for stimulant abuse and dependence.

Selected excerpts from the book by Robert Holman Coombs and William A. Howatt.

Cultural stereotypes about Hispanics could impede Latino youth from seeking help for drug and alcohol abuse. In turn, substance-abuse treatment providers must better understand how their own attitudes toward culture can affect the provision of sufficient behavioral health services, according to a new study.

Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) involves collecting self-reports on internal states (e.g., moods) and behaviors (e.g., drinking) multiple times per day in individuals’ everyday lives and environments.