NCJ Number
199334
Date Published
March 2003
Length
72 pages
Annotation
This document is a useful tool for church congregations as they encourage young people to make healthy decisions in their lives.
Abstract
Participation in a religious community is one factor that can help reduce young people's risk for substance abuse. Young people are less likely to make destructive decisions about substance use when they are equipped with credible and accurate drug information, given practical communication and refusal skills, and have positive role models in their lives. Drug prevention programs are an important complement to the foundation that a religious background lays for youth development. The entire congregation can be involved in the work of prevention by having prevention messages in sermons and homilies; encouraging youth to design and display anti-drug posters in the meeting/social hall; and publishing their faith's policies on drugs, alcohol, and tobacco. The section on Youth Activities offers creative discussion ideas and activities for youth ages 9 to 18. The activities include ways to deal with peer pressure; self-examination of beliefs regarding use of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs; dealing with conflict in friendship; and critical thinking skills about the media. In the Adult and Intergenerational Activities section, there are ideas suitable for religious education classes, fellowship suppers, or special intergenerational events. Some of these activities are learning more about drugs, alcohol, and tobacco; learning about marijuana; gaining communication skills with young people; and increasing awareness of activities that promote healthy adult/youth relationships. This section also has tips for expanding the support network for youth. Resources are provided.