Leading scholars, researchers, and clinicians in the field of addictive behavior provide an examination of drug dependency from a life span perspective in this authoritative volume. These experts argue that addictive problems among adolescents, young adults, those in mid-life, and the elderly require new forms of intervention and different theoretical conceptualizations. Organized around four general topic areas: etiology and course, prevention and early intervention, integrated treatment, and policy issues across the life span, Addictive Behaviors Across the Life Span thoroughly delineates such timely issues as treating substance abuse problems in offenders, prevention and early detection of alcohol and drug problems, the codependency movement, recovery patterns, and women′s issues. Among the other topics covered are biopsychosocial perspectives on the intergenerational transmission of alcoholism to children of alcoholics, comparative effects of community-based drug abuse prevention, adult marijuana dependence, and reducing the risks of addictive behaviors. Addictive Behaviors Across the Life Span is essential reading for academic and research psychologists, social workers, addiction counselors, psychiatrists, and other mental health professionals involved in direct treatment.