Effects of family therapy for substance abuse

A systematic review of recent research

Bibliographic Data

ID21319944
AuthorsJessica Esteban (Facultad de Ciencias Sociales y Humanas, Campus de Teruel Universidad de Zaragoza Teruel Spain), Cristian Suárez Relinque (0000-0001-6747-6677, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales Universidad Pablo de Olavide de Sevilla Sevilla Spain), Teresa Jiménez (0000-0002-5187-3683, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales y Humanas, Campus de Teruel Universidad de Zaragoza Teruel Spain)
Year2023
Volume62
Issue1
Pages49-73
Publication date2023-03-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueFamily Process (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0014-7370 • E-ISSN: 1545-5300
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/famp.12841
LanguageEN
Citations received8
References cited56

One of the most serious psychosocial problems worldwide is substance abuse because of its repercussions not only on the physical and psychological health of the abuser but also on their relational functioning. Among the well‐established therapeutic approaches for the treatment of substance abuse is family therapy, which, in addition to influencing personal variables, promotes changes in family dynamics. The main objective of this study is to review the scientific literature published from 2010 to the present on the efficacy and effectiveness shown by family‐based treatment approaches for substance use problems both in adolescent and adult samples. In addition, the effect on secondary variables such as family functioning and behavioral problems is evaluated. The empirical evidence accumulated in the last decade and reviewed in the present study indicates that the incorporation of family members in the treatment of substance abuse produces benefits by diminishing consumption and improving family functioning. Limitations of this study and of the research reviewed are discussed and directions for future research are provided

Tools

Open DOI