The National Cross-Site Evaluation of High-Risk Youth Programs: Findings on Designing and Implementing Effective Prevention Programs for Youth at High Risk. Monograph Series

• Main Authors: Hermann, Jack, Sambrano, Soledad, Springer, J. Fred, Nister, Mary, Sale, Elizabeth, Brounstein, Paul J, Cordray, David, Shadish, Will, Kasim, Rafa, Pan, Wei
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• Published: National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information 2002
• Subjects: Adolescents; At Risk Persons; Children; Community Involvement; Family Influence; Peer Influence; Program Effectiveness; Resistance to Temptation; Substance Abuse; Youth Programs

This document summarizes findings from the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention's National Cross-Site Evaluation of High-Risk Youth Programs, which identified characteristics associated with strong substance abuse prevention outcomes in 48 prevention programs. It provides concrete guidance regarding what elements of design and implementation are key to achieving results within a particular setting. Results indicate that program content is critical to improving adolescent behavior. Programs with strong life skills programming are more effective than those emphasizing other content in changing substance use and school connectedness. Effective programming must use interactive, rather than passive, classroom style learning methods. Effective interactive activities should be a focus of future program development. Programs with coherent program theory that includes clear links between outcome objectives and program activities are more effective than programs with a less clearly articulated rationale. The intensity of program service is more important for outcomes than the duration or total number of hours of contact. After-school programs are more effective in changing cigarette and alcohol use and family connectedness than programs offered primarily during school hours. (Contains 9 references and 23 figures.) (SM)