NCJ Number
179253
Date Published
1998
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This is a guide to involving families in efforts to reduce substance abuse by minors.
Abstract
Typically, substance abuse prevention programs for youth are part of school efforts, public television campaigns or local police initiatives. A new effort focuses on preventing substance abuse by helping families. Several groups need to work together: parents -- to protect their children from experiences that may lead to substance abuse; teachers, social workers, nurses and others -- who worry about children who are under stress and have troubles at home; community members -- who want to build a neighborhood that helps families keep their children drug free; and public health and substance abuse prevention practitioners -- who can bring the latest knowledge of what does and does not work, along with funds to help the community develop a plan of action. The booklet describes what puts children at risk for substance abuse, what protects children from substance abuse, three family-centered approaches that have shown great potential for success, and what parents and community members can do.