Reviews two projects which investigate innovative & appropriate methods to identify & intervene with substance-abusing youth -- the Amer. Correctional Assoc. & the Institute for Behavior & Health, Inc. project, & the Amer. Probation & Parole Assoc. project. Both programs emphasized the development of effective strategies for screening & testing youth for illicit drug use. Includes project descriptions & discussion of the outcomes & benefits of each as well as a discussion on program development. Recommendations are made for future actions. Glossary. References. Charts & tables. Sample drug-testing forms.

Presents information on identifying, screening, and assessing adolescents who use substances. This report focuses on the most current procedures and instruments for detecting substance abuse among adolescents, conducting comprehensive assessments, and beginning treatment planning. Presents appropriate strategies and guidelines for screening and assessment. Explains legal issues concerning Federal and State confidentiality laws. Provides guidance for screening and assessing adolescents in juvenile justice settings. Summarizes instruments to screen and assess adolescents for substance and general functioning domains.

This guide was created to promote the early identification of children and adolescents with mental health and substance use problems as well as to provide guidance, tools, and resources for early identification--including a compendium of the most developmentally, culturally, and environmentally appropriate screening instruments. SAMHSA developed the guide using the input of the members of the Federal/National Partnership* (FNP) Early Identification Workgroup, chaired by representatives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).