NCJ Number
188401
Date Published
2000
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This paper outlines the components of programs that are effective in preventing alcohol and drug use among youth.
Abstract
The elements of effective substance abuse prevention programs for youth were determined from SAMHSA/CSAP national cross-site evaluations and grantee evaluations. These evaluations found that building caring and supportive relationships between youth and people from at least one of their spheres of influence decreases problem behavior and increases youth's ability to refuse alcohol and drugs. Further, prevention programs that encourage change in adolescent behavior patterns that often lead to substance use may break the link to substance abuse. Parents and caregivers play an important role. Their intense involvement in children's lives through the teen years is critically important to youths' ability to avoid alcohol and drug use as well as other risky behaviors. Alcohol and drug prevention programs that focus on the family unit and emphasize the active involvement of family members can improve parenting skills and family relationships. Alternative activities for youth -- such as involvement in sports, the arts, or outdoor activities -- are popular approaches to prevention; however, it is the positive adult interaction that the youth experiences, rather than the activity, that acts as a protective factor against alcohol and drug use. Prevention programs can also be effective in changing individual characteristics that predict later substance abuse. Teaching life skills to adolescents as part of prevention programs -- such as decision making, problem solving, resisting peer pressure, and social and communication skills -- reduces the occurrence of substance abuse. This paper also briefly describes specific programs that have been effective in preventing substance abuse among youth. 11 notes