Mutual support groups have the potential to be a powerful support network for youth with substance use problems. There is a long history of youth being referred to and participating in these groups, yet research regarding the effectiveness of their participation is in its early stages. In recent years, a small but growing body of literature has been devoted to this topic. This article:(1) summarizes the history of youth involvement in mutual support groups;(2) reviews research on youth involvement in mutual support meetings and evidence of effectiveness;(3) describes implementation of and lessons learned from a pilot study that attempted to increase youth attendance and involvement with three types of 12-step groups; and (4) provides recommendations for future research related to mutual support groups and youth.

Significant decreases in substance use have been demonstrated for adolescents admitted to treatment for substance use problems (Dennis et al., 2004; Hser et al., 2001; Morral, McCaffrey, & Ridgeway, 2004). However, a large percentage of youth between the ages of 12 and 18 years old continue to struggle with periods of relapse and recovery after discharge, especially during the first 90 days (Brown, Vik, & Creamer, 1989; Dennis et al.; SH Godley,