NCJ Number
211778
Journal
Journal of Drug Education Volume: 35 Issue: 1 Dated: 2005 Pages: 29-46
Date Published
2005
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This study surveyed head athletic trainers (HATS) in NCAA-member Divisions I, II, and III to compare their perceptions of their athletic departments' current drug education policies.
Abstract
A Web-based questionnaire obtained responses from 353 HATS (a 66-percent return rate); 139 were from Division I schools, 92 from Division II, and 122 from Division III. The drug education programs described by all the respondents focused more on providing information about the negative consequences of drugs than on changing the attitudes and behaviors of students that contributed to drug use. More Division I and II schools provided comprehensive ATOD (alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs) education programs to their athletes than did Division III schools; however, the majority of these programs were not regularly scheduled. The HATS in all divisions reported that the abuse of alcohol and other drugs by student athletes during and after athletic and social events was a significant concern, and they noted the importance of scheduling drug education programs closer to such events. The majority of the HATS did not view participation in drug education programs as part of their professional duties; however, they expressed a personal interest in increasing their involvement in these activities. The HATS emphasized the need for athletic departments to develop long-term and comprehensive ATOD programs for student athletes, accompanied by regular evaluations of the effectiveness of these programs. Recommendations are offered for steps athletic departments should take to improve drug education for student athletes. 8 tables and 26 references