Discusses several postulates of empowerment theory particularly relevant to guiding the practice and analysis of substance-abuse prevention and education programs. The empowerment model predicts that the empowerment of students and staff will increase both the effectiveness and the longevity of programs. (EMK)

Discusses issues complicating the message of alcohol education, including the ambivalent nature of alcohol itself, personal uncertainty about the effects of alcohol, and moral issues. Suggests that the schools may be too involved in alcohol education and risk losing credibility with students. (JAC)

An organized task force can create community awareness of the adolescent substance abuse epidemic sweeping across the nation. The purposes, objectives, structure and action-oriented committee activities of the task force are described. (Author/BL)

Charges that mass media campaigns have not been effective in dealing with such public health problems as drinking, smoking, and drugs. Reasons for this lack of effectiveness are discussed in terms of a hostile environment of antihealth advertising. Three conditions for success (monopolization, canalization, and supplementation) are discussed. (JAC)

Seeks to redefine the issues in alcohol prevention. Finds that current concepts do not address all of the problems in preventing alcoholism. Recommends that theories, models, and research studies developed on the holistic health model be encouraged. (ABB)

Increasing drug use and problems among youth are acknowledged, and drug education programs and responsiblities within the school setting are discussed. A drug education and counseling model incorporating informational and psychosocial process components is offered. Major support resources for drug education and counseling programs are noted.…

An expanded approach to alcohol survey use is suggested which is based on the collection of data regarding students' perceptions of peer norms as well as personal attitudes toward alcohol use. The uses of surveys are illustrated with case study examples from an ongoing project connected with counseling and educational outreach activities.…

Examines difficulties that may be encountered when substance abuse counselors switch from academic to "popular" writing styles to reach lay readers. Discusses the dichotomous audience, the use of controversial words, and the author's mode of communication. Provides suggestions for writing style improvements compatible with needs of the commercial…

Asserts that secluded nature of homosexual bar and its importance as social center is one example of how lifestyle may contribute to alcohol and drug problems of homosexuals. Describes what aspects of lifestyle and social control must be taken into account when intervening into such problems. (Author)

Describes Alcoholics Anonymous as an effective self-help treatment modality for many alcoholics. Notes that organization would seem to initially necessitate "tolerated unhealthiness" psychologically to help consolidate sobriety, suggesting abstinence first, psychological healthiness second regimen. Suggests that psychotherapists learn to…

Asserts that the study of human behavior is the study of social interaction. Describes a theoretical perspective from sociology and shows how it relates to the alcoholic family. Analyzes the dynamics within a family affected by alcoholism to examine who has the power, who maintains control, how one loses power, and how power is exhibited. (NB)

Asserts that few critical issues in drug programming are being thoughtfully considered. Suggests that health educators and other professionals involved in drug program development must seriously consider program problems of goal selection, policy development, student rights and protection, clarification of drug-related terminology, and evaluation…

Asserts that a primary concern to the alcoholic and to those who try to help him is the behavior that causes alcohol dependency. While not disputing the view that alcoholism may be a disease, argues that full responsibility should be assigned to the alcoholic for his behavior. (NB)

Illustrates the stimulus addiction chain experienced by a substance addicted person and recommends that substance abuse treatment agencies provide low-stimulus activity by controlling their use of high-stimulus structure and high-level recreational stimulus producers. Suggests quiet activities to help regulate stimulus and reinforce reflectiveness…

Comments on extending the parameters of the subject of social thought on alcoholism. Maintains that this subject is a vast intellectual, professional, and societal terrain. Suggests use of appropriate, sophisticated, comprehensive research methodologies with which to understand the issue of alcohol and alcoholism in society. (PVV)