Social Competence of Adolescents in Residential Substance Abuse Treatment

Abstract

ABSTRACTWhile substance use disorder (SUD) is a multifaceted problem stemming from both genetic and non-genetic factors, one of the factors that might influence substance use in adolescents is their ability to interact effectively and build healthy relationships with others. Social competence is both a protective factor against SUD and, in its deficiency, a risk factor for SUD. To explore the link between social competence and SUD, the current study aimed to measure the social competence of residents of a youth treatment center and to compare the results to those of a normed sample. Addiction counselors completed the Home and Community Social Behavior Scales (HCSBS) on 54 youths in residential addiction treatment. Results showed that males were significantly more likely than females to be in the “at risk” category for social competence and, in particular, for peer relations. Implications for treatment are discussed.