NCJ Number
111295
Date Published
1987
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This report proposes guidelines for developing adolescent drug prevention programs.
Abstract
The guidelines are based on a study of several prevention models, the capacities of adolescents at various stages in their development, the patterns of drug use over time, and factors affecting the delivery of services. The study is offered as technical assistance for those charged with developing drug prevention programs. Successful drug prevention programs address peer pressures to use drugs and the adolescents' belief that using drugs will be socially advantageous. These programs have their roots in behavioral psychology and incorporate specific activities that help adolescents identify the source of peer pressures to use drugs, develop arguments against drug use, and feel comfortable in saying 'no' to peer pressure. Research has shown that the best age for introducing drug prevention programs in schools is 13 or 14, thus making junior high school the best place for the teaching of resistance skills. The substances to be targeted in drug prevention programs are the gateway drugs: cigarettes, alcohol, and marijuana. The researchers recommend that programs will interest students if they emphasize real and immediate goals, treat students with respect, and do not glamorize drug use. 5 footnotes and 50 references.