Harm Reduction

Abstract

A practical antidote to the war on drugs, the harm reduction approach seeks to meet clients where they are, establish rapport and help them modify or give up their risk-taking behavior. This article presents the case for harm reduction techniques for work with youth whose risk-taking behavior is problematic. Emphasis is on drinking, drug use, and high-risk sexual activity.

Key Words:

• Harm reduction approach
• client-centered approach
• strengths perspective
• adolescents
• high-risk adolescent behavior