Ratings of behavior problems in adolescents hospitalized for substance abuse

Abstract

The usefulness of the Devereux Adolescent Behavior Rating Scale (DAB) for assessing behavior problems in adolescents hospitalized for substance abuse was demonstrated using a sample of 404 adolescents admitted to inpatient substance abuse treatment units. Adolescents admitted to these units displayed multiple behavioral difficulties, which require consideration in any treatment planning. From the 15 original DAB scales, four broad‐band scales measuring acting out behaviors, psychotic behaviors, attention seeking/expressive behaviors, and inner turmoil/frailty, were developed to improve its usefulness. Age and gender differences on these four broad‐band scales are discussed in terms of their clinical implications and suggestions are given for further use of and research with the DAB.