NCJ Number
174194
Editor(s)
D S Elliott
Date Published
1997
Length
111 pages
Annotation
This volume describes research aimed at identifying 10 model programs proven effective for violence prevention; describes the 10 programs selected from the more than 400 reviewed; and details the goals, targeted risk and protective factors, program design, and other aspects of the Midwestern Prevention Project, one of the model programs selected.
Abstract
The document is intended as a practical reference to allow interested persons, agencies, and communities to make an informed decision about a program's appropriateness for their local situation, needs, and available resources. An introduction notes that demand for effective violence and crime prevention programs has never been greater, but most programs being used have not been evaluated. Therefore, a collaborative effort was conducted to identify 10 violence prevention programs that met a high scientific standard of program effectiveness, based on their strong research design, data indicating significant deterrent effects, sustained effects, and multiple site replication. The project included plans for a technical assistance and monitoring component. The Midwestern Prevention Project is a comprehensive, community-based, multifaceted program for adolescent drug abuse prevention. It involves an extended period of programming. It is initiated in a school setting and also goes into the family and community contexts. Strategies are coordinated and include a school program, continuing school boosters, a parent education and organization program, community organization and training, and local policy change. The school program uses active social learning techniques. Outcomes have demonstrated reductions of up to 40 percent in daily smoking, similar reductions in marijuana use, smaller reductions in alcohol use. Some effects have been maintained through grade 12 and other through age 23. Figures, table, reference notes, appended program materials, and 100 references