Self-Perceived Strengths Among Adolescents With and Without Substance Abuse Problems

Abstract

The importance of examining positive aspects of youth development has been emphasized across disciplines involved in the care of youth with substance abuse problems. However, little is known about the strengths of adolescents with substance abuse problems, especially youth entering residential treatment. Utilizing the Strengths Assessment Inventory, a measure assessing psychological and social strengths, we examined patterns of strengths across groups of age- and gender-matched youth who reported no substance use, frequent substance use, and those entering treatment for severe substance use. Each group consisted of 43 participants ranging in age from 14 to 18 years. Results indicated that, on average, individuals entering treatment scored lower on personal strengths. However, through the use of more sophisticated statistical approaches, it was found that certain strengths were predictive of individuals belonging to the treatment group. Results are discussed in terms of their relevance to the treatment of adolescent substance abuse problems.

Positive Child Personality Factors in Children with ADHD

“…Additionally, the results of this study are consistent with previous research indicating that having good social skills is related to an overall positive outlook in life for youth with substance abuse problems (Harris et al, 2017). The present study showed that children with ADHD, when they have good social skills, also consider themselves to possess strengths.…”

“…The present study showed that children with ADHD, when they have good social skills, also consider themselves to possess strengths. These personal strengths have the potential to help these individuals to succeed in other areas, such as their academic functioning and overall quality of life (Harris et al, 2017). Given that social skills can be trained through intervention, the results of this study can inform future interventions and social policies that could improve the lives of vulnerable children and families with ADHD.…”

Using a situative perspective to gain a deeper understanding of how children’s strengths are related to social context

“…Recent research has begun to explore the community contexts in which young people demonstrate strengths (Barba et al, 2019; Harris et al, 2017). There is potential for this to be extended to further our understanding of school‐based contexts which children associate with their strengths and to explore how theory can help to deepen our understanding of these places.…”