NCJ Number
164008
Journal
Journal of Adolescent Research Volume: 11 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1996) Pages: 36-67
Date Published
1996
Length
32 pages
Annotation
The Creating Lasting Connections 5-year demonstration project was designed to delay the onset and reduce the frequency of alcohol and other drug use by high-risk youth between 12 and 14 years of age by positively impacting resiliency factors in three domains: church, family, and individual (youth).
Abstract
Major project components included church-community mobilization, parent-guardian training, youth training, early intervention services, and followup case management services. The project design emphasized wellness, health promotion, and resiliency factors rather than pathology and a deficit orientation to drug use and abuse prevention. The project was implemented in several church communities in rural, suburban, and inner-city settings. Evaluation of the project employed a true experimental design with repeated measures over a 1-year period. Results showed the program successfully engaged churches and communities in drug abuse prevention activities and produced positive direct effects on family and youth resiliency, as well as moderating effects on the onset and the frequency of alcohol and other drug use. The project produced positive effects on youth resiliency consistent with the project message. These effects included increased use of community services when personal or family problems arose, increased bonding with mothers, increased bonding with fathers and siblings, increased leveling communication, and more community involvement. 47 references and 8 tables