Young Women's Perspectives of Their Adolescent Treatment Programs: A Qualitative Study

Miriam Clark, Rohanna Buchanan, Leslie D Leve, Miriam Clark, Rohanna Buchanan, Leslie D Leve

Abstract

The perspectives of at-risk adolescent clients can play an important role in informing treatment services. The current study examines qualitative interview data from 15 young women with histories of maltreatment. Using a semi-structured qualitative interview approach, we asked the women to think retrospectively about their treatment experiences as adolescent girls. Results highlight the need for providing adolescent girls with reliable and practical information about risky sexual behavior and drug use from relatable and trustworthy helping professionals. We discuss strategies for developing and maintaining trust and delivering specific content.

Keywords: child abuse; health risking sexual behavior; mental health; services for adolescents; substance use; teenage pregnancies; unwanted pregnancies.

Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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