Identifying a negative mood subtype in incarcerated adolescents: Relationship to substance use

Abstract

Objective The following study tested the empirical validity and clinical meaningfulness of a negative mood subtype of incarcerated adolescent males ( N=270). Differences in alcohol and marijuana use and consequences were examined. Method Participants were subtyped according to reports of depressive and anxious symptoms using the Children's Depression Inventory and the Revised Children's Manifest Anxiety Scale. Results Cluster analysis confirmed the presence of negative mood (34%) and normal mood (66%) subtypes. Incarcerated adolescents in the negative mood subtype reported higher levels of alcohol use, higher levels of use-related consequences for both alcohol and marijuana, greater use of both substances to regulate mood states, and more use of avoidant coping. Conclusion Results underscore the need for identification and treatment of mental health and substance use difficulties in the juvenile justice system.