NCJ Number
168219
Date Published
1997
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This chapter details the components of the major school-based curriculum-type prevention programs used in the past 20 years and reports on research evaluations of each strategy.
Abstract
Figures on adolescent substance use were lower in 1994 than for most previous years. Explanations for the drop include: the fad quality of taking drugs has worn off; their symbolic value as a form of rebellion has decreased; adolescents have been affected by the general movement in the United States toward more healthy lifestyles; political and professional leaders have taken a stand against using drugs; and parents, schools, communities, and media have become more sophisticated in their message about, and their programs concerning, the non-use of such substances. This chapter focuses on the anti-use messages and programs. In addition to detailing the components of major school-based curriculum-type prevention programs, the chapter reports on research evaluations of each strategy; reviews the theories of human behavior upon which each of the major prevention strategies was based; and gives a list of many of the successful programs and sources of curriculum materials and training in program use. References