Adapt: Advancing Decision Making and Problem Solving for Teens

ADAPT (Advancing Decision Making and Problem Solving for Teens) is a small-group intervention for middle and high school students who are at risk for substance use, aggression, truancy, poor school performance, and depressive moods. The program's 12 sessions teach fundamental skills such as:

• Effective problem solving
• Decision making
• Refusing drugs
• Effective communication
• Anger management

Students practice using strategies in the context of issues they are experiencing. Sessions include guided practice in and out of school with strategies such as: behavioural mapping, identifying triggers, role-playing, and practising skills in context.

A school professional facilitates sessions, which last from 45 to 60 minutes. We encourage facilitators to customise sessions to fit the needs of their school settings.

ADAPT includes a CD with in-session worksheets, homework assignments, and other tools for group facilitators. Where appropriate, forms can be modified with school- or community-specific information. Includes 42 fillable forms and 1 Excel document.

Results

Field-testing showed reductions in depressive symptoms, increases in self-esteem, and good rates of abstinence for substance use.