Differentiating Characteristics of Juvenile Methamphetamine Users

The authors investigated the differences in characteristics and risk behaviors endorsed by detained adolescent methamphetamine users and compared them with other drug users. Subjects completed the Millon Adolescent Clinical Inventory and a questionnaire in which sociodemographics and behavioral information were explored and compared. Multivariate analyses and self-reports revealed that meth-using adolescents were more likely than other drug users to present symptoms of a clinical syndrome, and had higher prevalence rates of attempted suicide and parents who use drugs. Results indicate significant differences between these groups and suggest the need for individualized drug treatment.