Parents needed for new study to help teenagers overcome substance abuse
- Release Date: 29/08/2006
- Media Contact: Miranda Hunt 0410 417 790
Mater Child and Youth Mental Health Service is calling for parents who are concerned about their teenager's drug use to participate in a new program called PUMP (Parents Using Motivational Practices), which aims to change or stop adolescent substance abuse.
The PUMP program, funded by Queensland Health, emphasises the importance of developing an individual's personal motivation for change, rather than forcing behaviour changes.
PUMP Project Manager, Ms Michelle Kerr said the program which is based on “Motivational Interviewing” will introduce parents to some ideas and approaches that will help them talk with their teenager about changing or stopping their drug use.
“Research has shown that responsive communication within the family network is crucial for healthy adolescent development,” Ms Kerr said.
“The PUMP study will look at this relationship and equip parents with some different communication tools to help reduce confrontation and arguments which can easily arise when talking to an adolescent about drug use.
“The overall goal of this approach is to increase an individual's intrinsic motivation so that the decision and desire to change is driven by the individual rather than being forced by external pressures,” she said.
The PUMP program is open to parents, or those in a parenting role, of adolescents aged between 13–18 years old who are misusing drugs.
“PUMP is not a quick-fix solution,” Ms Kerr said. “It is hoped through this study that parents and carers will feel more confident in talking with their teenager about substance abuse problems which will have a positive impact over time.”
PUMP is made up of two group sessions. The first group session will be held on Monday 18 September with other sessions to follow.
For more information about the PUMP program, please contact Project Manager, Michelle Kerr on +61 7 3840 8242 (Mon–Thurs).