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Definition: Home passes are used in residential treatment programs to help a teen transition to returning to live at home. In making this a structured process families have the opportunity to get help in making changes and dealing with problems that come up during home passes.
When a teen in treatment starts to make positive changes, defined by advancing in the phase system, they will begin to spend time with family members outside of the facility. The purpose of home passes is to provide a structured, gradual way for teens to re-integrate with their families and get help in dealing with issues that come up during this time. Specific goals for home passes are established in family therapy so the teen is clear about behavioral expectations. Structured activities are recommended for initial passes to help family members develop new ways of relating and having fun together.
Home passes are designed to provide teens in treatment the opportunity to use new skills and maintain relationships with their families, as well as for family members to adjust to the positive changes the teen is making. When home passes go well, they will gradually become longer and more frequent. When they don’t go well, family therapy and multi-family groups provide a forum for families to get feedback and support in working through these problems.
Quick Links: Mental Health Terms Used in Treating Troubled Teens | Trouble Teens Articles | Quiz Is Your Teen At-Risk?