NCJ Number
204654
Date Published
2002
Length
31 pages
Annotation
This report presents guidelines for the creation of performance-based drug abuse prevention program for youth.
Abstract
In 1998, the United Nations Office for Drug Control and Crime Prevention (UNDCP) created the Global Youth Network project with the goal of allowing young people to assist in the design and implementation of drug abuse prevention projects. The underlying philosophy is that youth possess legitimate knowledge concerning issues of youth culture that should be used to effectively prevent substance abuse. Performance-based group activities are used in many communities around the world to prevent substance abuse. Performance-based activities cover a wide range of expressive art forms, such as acting, singing, dancing, writing, composing, and designing artwork. Performance is captivating and beneficial because participants are forced to express themselves in different, challenging, and creative ways. Interpersonal skills, acceptance of others, and communication skills are developed through performance-based activities, resulting in more resilient youth. Quotations from young participants of performance-based substance abuse prevention programs are offered to illustrate its many benefits. Various types of performance events are elaborated to give organizers ideas for performance-based activities. Types of performance not yet mentioned include puppetry, story telling, role playing, and carnivals, festivals, or celebrations. Tips are presented for choosing projects and implementing the drug prevention program. Specific ideas for performance-based substance abuse prevention programs are offered throughout the report. Advice is offered on promotion of the program and its artistic events, budgeting, and engaging youth. A listing of resources and Web sites is included for further investigation of performance-based substance abuse prevention programs.