NCJ Number
176717
Date Published
1994
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This video profiles three drug abuse prevention models tested by the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Abstract
Each program is described through portrayals of program activities, comments by adult program leaders, and comments by program participants about the program's impact on them. The program called Reconnecting At-Risk Youth in Seattle, Wash., is built around a one-semester personal growth class for high school students. Candidates for the class, which is conducted on school premises, include those students with high truancy rates and low or declining grades. Specially trained teachers conduct the class, which focuses on four major areas: enhancing self-esteem; improving decision-making skills; managing emotions, particularly stress; and improving communication skills. The program is measuring its success in such tangible ways as improved grade point averages and attendance records as well as reduced alcohol and other drug use among participants. The Strengthening Families program in Denver, Co., is an example of a program developed specifically for children of alcohol-abusing and other drug- abusing parents. Training and counseling sessions focus on improving the family environment, particularly the parents' ability to communicate with their children. Separate sessions are held for parents and children. The groups then come together to practice the skills they have learned. A comprehensive approach to prevention is exemplified by Kansas City, Missouri's Project STAR (Students Taught Awareness and Resistance). This program has multiple components that include media campaigns, drug education, parent education, community organization, and health policy. One of the basic components of the program is a middle school curriculum that helps students recognize factors that might influence them to use alcohol and other drugs and teaches them resistance skills. Homework of the curriculum must be shared with parents. Training program for community residents enable them to canvas neighborhoods, promote the antidrug message, and determine where special needs exist.