Panelists argued that prevention, early intervention, family involvement and multidisciplinary approaches are the hallmarks of effective responses to dealing with juvenile substance abuse and criminal or delinquent behavior. One in ten reported using cocaine regularly. A similar percentage report being under the influence of drugs or alcohol when committing a crime. More than 200,000 arrests for drug-related offenses by juveniles take place annually, including 30,000 arrests of youths under the age of 14. Wykoff argued that substance abuse by juveniles is a public health problem, a social health problem, and a criminal justice problem.
Effective solutions require a substantial, comprehensive, and collaborative approach.
Cost-effective answers demand that society reach these young people before they become users, before they have health problems, and before they reach the juvenile justice system. Successful work with young people must begin from the premise that their needs are different from those of adults and that programs must be designed specifically with their particular needs in mind. Prevention programs must bring together all elements of the community, Stern said. These collaborative programs include the cooperation of various federal agencies, state and local governments, and public and private sector community-based organizations. She encouraged more efforts from community groups and faith-based institutions.