The Influence Of Family Therapy On Flexibility And Cohesion Among Family Members Seeking Male Residential Treatment For Adolescent And Young Adult Substance Abuse

The present study investigated within a substance abuse treatment center the influence of family therapy on flexibility and cohesion among family members. Past studies have suggested adolescents who abuse substances exist in families who have a lack of balance of flexibility and cohesion. Unfortunately, few studies have examined the influence of family therapy on flexibility and cohesion throughout the states of an adolescent and young adult substance abuse treatment program. The sample of participants for this study was drawn from residents of Capstone Treatment Center in Judsonia, Arkansas. Participants included residents and parents. The Family Flexibility and Cohesion Evaluation Scales IV (FACES IV) was administered two separate times within the process of treatment: upon admission and upon discharge. FACES IV, a self-report instrument, examined family cohesion and family flexibility. It was predicted that the family will exhibit high scores for the Unbalanced Scales and low scores for the Balanced Scales at the time of admission. A second hypothesis predicted that the score of the families' Flexibility and Cohesion will move toward a more balanced system, suggesting a higher level of satisfaction within the family system. Hypothesis one was supported from five of the six scales. Hypothesis two was also supported and research implications of these findings are discussed. -Author