This book illuminates the causes of severe adolescent behavioral problems and presents a research-based, 15-step model for helping families bring about meaningful change. Incorporating structural and strategic principles, the author's cohesive approach focuses on setting clear rules and consequences; changing the mood and direction of confrontations; neutralizing such problem behaviors as disrespect, truancy, running away, violence, and threats of suicide; and restoring positive, nurturing family relationships. Special treatment issues covered include adolescent substance abuse and managing problems that arise in single-parent and divorced families, as well as ways to collaborate effectively with outside systems. Featuring a wealth of illustrative case examples and reproducible materials, this is an indispensable clinical guidebook and text.

320 pages

"Using Treating the Tough Adolescent as a text provides my students with a clear, concise understanding of the strategic therapy model and its application. Many students (as well as veteran therapists) are intimidated by the idea of working with out-of-control teens and their families. Dr. Sells's book is written in a straightforward way and offers specific strategies that, when followed, will lead to success."

-Peter D. Bradley, PhD, Department of Family Therapy, Texas Woman's University

"One of the best treatment manuals for working with adolescent problems that exists within the family therapy field....a must read for everyone who treats difficult teenagers."

-Journal of Family Psychotherapy

"I recommend this book for any mental health clinician who works with difficult adolescents and their families. It is an excellent volume outlining a step-by-step approach to effecting lasting change in severely behaviorally disordered adolescents."

-Canadian Child Psychiatry Review

"This book is a gem....If you wish to know what an advanced structural-strategic family therapy model looks like, read this book."

-Matthew D. Selekman, MSW, Response Center, Skokie, Illinois