Drug Czar's Anti-Drug Media Campaign: Continuing Concerns

• NCJ Number: 182227
• Journal: Journal of Health Communication Volume: 5 Dated: 2000 Pages: 77-82
• Author(s): William Dejong; Lawrence Wallack; Barry R. McCaffrey
• Date Published: 2000
• Length: 6 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Analysis
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: DCC

Annotation

The authors criticize the antidrug media campaign organized by the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) in terms of its strategic direction and execution.

Abstract

They oppose ONDCP's strong opposition to including alcohol in the campaign, its continued reliance on fear appeals, and its relative inattention to building support for environmental prevention strategies. The authors also express their concerns about ONDCP's underutilization of an expert review committee of behavioral scientists. They disagree with the contention of the ONDCP that calling for additional treatment resources may negate the value of primary prevention. The ONDCP Director responds to the criticisms by defending the ONDCP antidrug campaign with respect to drug prevention, public health, and public health education through the media. 16 references