NCJ Number
194676
Date Published
2002
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This CD-ROM contains materials for use in a classroom setting to help young students understand the dangers of certain prescription drugs and the impact they can have on their appearance and behaviors, both of which can negatively impact their social acceptance; materials are provided for the instructor and the parents of the students.
Abstract
The prescription drugs that are the focus of this instruction are those that may be found in students’ parents’ medicine cabinets. These include tranquilizers, steroids, stimulants, and painkillers. A discussion guide includes questions and activities to help the instructor begin a discussion with the students about the dangers of prescription drug abuse. The guide is divided into three areas that address initial perceptions of drugs and prescription drugs, myths/facts about prescription drug abuse, and class activities. Materials for students pose questions that help students become aware of their limited knowledge about specific prescription drugs and the dangers posed by their misuse. The focus is on helping students understand that the dissemination of prescription drugs is controlled by doctors, because the lay person does not have the knowledge or experience to use these drugs safely. The material also addresses specific effects of prescription drugs that can undermine the attractiveness and acceptance of the youth, notably shaking, unpleasant bodily odors, diarrhea, and throwing up. This strategy is designed to play upon students’ desire to be attractive and socially acceptable to peers. Materials are also provided for parents. They alert parents to children’s attraction to prescription drugs and suggest how parents can prevent children from using these drug through physical and conversational measures. Evaluation forms are provided for both the instructor and students.