Case studies and scientific research are reviewed in identifying the social conditions, contextual factors, emotional traumas, and personality and biological characteristics that contribute to a youth's attraction to and potential dependence upon drugs and alcohol. The stages of adolescent addiction to drugs and/or alcohol are outlined. The features and adverse effects are discussed for the following drugs: alcohol, nicotine, marijuana, inhalants, methamphetamines, LSD and other hallucinogens, ecstasy and other club drugs, cocaine, heroin, and the nonmedical use of prescription drugs. The concluding section of the book focuses on advice to parents about how to deal with the fact that youth are often confronted with attractive options for using illicit drugs, including alcohol. The warning signs of use and dependency are reviewed, and guidelines are offered for seeking help in dealing with a youth's drug/alcohol abuse. Intervention and treatment procedures are described, along with how to deal with relapses in the course of treatment. Recommended readings are listed, along with Web sites for parent and teens. Suggestions are given for finding a treatment Center. Subject index