Since Teen Challenge New England first opened its doors to drug addicts and alcoholics in 1963, thousands have come seeking help. Significant research projects have confirmed the effectiveness of the Teen Challenge approach to helping those affected by life-controlling problems. Leaders in Teen Challenge credit the spiritual component of the program as the key to the high success rate of Teen Challenge graduates. The following results have come from both a research project conducted by the National Institute of Drug Abuse in 1975, and a comparative study conducted by Northwestern University in 1994. The most recent, published in 1999, is a comparison of treatment effectiveness in drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers and was conducted by Aaron Bicknese, PhD of Northwestern University.
- 86.6% of graduates after seven years remained drug and crime free. This is opposed to a 6-7% rate for secular programs.
- 92% of the respondents claim that Teen Challenge has had a great impact on their lives.
- 72% of the graduates continued their education upon completion of the program. These areas include GED, college education, and Bible school.
- 84% of graduates attend church regularly.
- The study concluded that Teen Challenge graduates were "more likely to be living normal lives and not need further treatment."
- Students at Teen Challenge had an attitude of grateful privilege to be in the program.
- 90% of Teen Challenge graduates were employed one and two years later while 41% were employed after other drug programs.
- 87.5% of the graduates did not need further drug treatment (90% considered themselves addicted to drugs upon entering the program.)
- 92% of the graduates report good to excellent health whereas of gradates of secular programs, only 59% claim good health.
- 70% of the graduates reported that their family relationships have greatly improved since leaving Teen Challenge.
As a result of these surveys, indicators of success include: stabilized life-style due to their personal commitment to Jesus Christ, employment with some level of stability, financial independence, an absence of trouble with police, an ability to enjoy freedom without condition or supervision, and little need for additional drug treatment once completing the Teen Challenge program.
Studies:
University of Tennessee Report
National Institute on Drug Abuse Report
Northwestern University