This book is a collection of essays and information representing the experience, perspective, and insight of professionals whose careers have been closely associated with the problem of youthful substance abuse. The first chapter outlines those circumstances that might make it more likely that a young person would experience drug-related difficulties. The second chapter outlines the breadth of physician responsibilities in the prevention, management, and treatment of adolescent substance abuse and includes guidance as to methodologies for meeting those responsibilities. Chapter three stresses the critical importance of historical information in detecting and assessing drug abuse behavior. The fourth chapter explains currently available technology for the detection of drugs in body fluids. The chapter on referral provides information on treatment modalities for drug-abusing adolescents. The concluding chapters, Prevention Programs, Ethical and Legal Considerations, and Specific Drugs, serve as background for the development of the knowledge base necessary for effective intervention. (JD)