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Treatment Of Substance Abuse Treatment Facilities

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History Historically, substance abuse issues were thought of as a male problem (Bride 2011). Treatment center programs, methods and models are constructed around the male psychological needs rather than mix-gender needs. Literature shows that 12-step programs, therapy, individual counseling, group therapy and many other models provide to the increase in success stories however there is a lack in research focusing on the needs of the gender individual (Marsh, Cao, & Shin 2009). Substance abuse treatment facilities have utilized very similar models of treatment throughout history with very little change in the programs. Throughout the years, many more facilities have implemented different gender specific treatment programs but very little research has been conducted on these programs. Comparing men and women in relation to their specific needs found that women typically report more psychiatric symptoms, more depression and anxiety, lower self esteem and much higher rates of childhood sexual abuse than men (Bride 2011). Many studies show that treatment is more effective when tailored to meet specific client needs. According to Marsh, Cao, and Shin (2009) substance abuse treatment is more effective when health, mental health, parenting, vocational, housing and legal issues are addressed. Women in treatment programs express more concern about specific needs although the program itself is specific towards male needs. The reoccurring issue in substance abuse treatment history

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