The National Cross-Site Evaluation of High-Risk Youth Programs. Preventing Substance Abuse: Major Findings from the National Cross-Site Evaluation of High-Risk Youth Programs. Monograph Series

This multiple-site study assessed 48 prevention programs for high-risk youth funded by the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, identifying program characteristics associated with strong substance abuse prevention outcomes. Data analysis indicated that substance abuse programs reduced rates of sub...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors Springer, J. Fred, Sambrano, Soledad, Sale, Elizabeth, Kasim, Rafa, Herman, Jack
Format Report
LanguageEnglish
Published National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information 01.01.2002
Subjects
Adolescents
At Risk Persons
Children
Community Involvement
Family Influence
Peer Influence
Program Effectiveness
Resistance to Temptation
Sex Differences
Substance Abuse
Youth Programs
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Summary:This multiple-site study assessed 48 prevention programs for high-risk youth funded by the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, identifying program characteristics associated with strong substance abuse prevention outcomes. Data analysis indicated that substance abuse programs reduced rates of substance use, and the positive effects of program participation continued for at least 18 months after the program ended. Youth already using cigarettes, alcohol, and marijuana significantly reduced their use of substances after joining a prevention program. Gender played an important role in risk, protection, and substance abuse. Despite gender differences, programs that used multiple science-based practices identified in the study produced stronger and longer lasting effects for both boys and girls. Family, peers, school, community, and society protected against substance abuse. Connection to those five interwoven domains clearly played an important role in effective prevention efforts. Science-based program components produced consistent and lasting reductions in substance use. Communities with more opportunities for participation in prevention positively impacted substance use by youth. (Contains 11 references and 14 figures.) (SM)