Community-based drug agencies were established as a means for confronting the dru abuse dilemma. However, due to the traditional guidelines that were followd in develo ing CBDA programs, the unique aspects of the problem were overlooked. 4his uniqueness relates to the ability of the drug culture to satisfy basic human needs. To be effective CBDA must be able to satisfy the same needs that clients previously met through articipation in the drug culture. This article examines three areas of weaLess which limit the effectiveness of CBDA: (1) fragmented delivery of services; (2) perpetuation of minimal client involvement, commitment, and responsibility; and (3) motivational considerations of board members. The alternative family structure is described as an innovative CBDA approach that directly relates to the uniqueness of the drug abuse problem.
Understanding the drug abuse problem has become an increasingly frustrating task for professionals and laymen alike. Despite the numerous and diverse efforts towards solving the problem, there have not been any simple, clear-cut solutions for treating and preventing drug abuse among youth.
Drug abuse is a unique and complex problem requiring a unique approach. This approach should recognize and incorporate the multitude of basic human needs presently being met by the drug culture. These needs include a sense of belonging, identity, emotional support, security, and meaningful values.
Community-based drug agencies (CBDA) have recently been established as a mechanism for confronting the drug abuse problem. A means of evaluating CBDA from an administrative and staffing point of view has been suggested . However, there have been no theoretical criteria established to measure how effective these agencies have been in accomplishing their goals.
An agency's ability to meet the basic human needs of the youthful drug abuser in substitution for the drug culture is the key factor in its outlook for success. The authors' observations and experiences indicate that many CBDA have not been able to implement programs that meet basic human needs. Consequently, their effectiveness has been limited.