This study reports on findings from the first two years of a study to compare a standard Life Skill Training (LST) program with an infused (I-LST) approach. Nine small, rural school districts were randomly assigned to LST, I-LST, or control conditions in grade seven. The LST program significantly reduced alcohol use, binge drinking, marijuana use,…

This study compared the cost-effectiveness of Life Skills Training (LST) to a LST curriculum infusion approach (I-LST) and to control schools. Male and female seventh graders from nine rural schools (3 in each condition) were followed for two years. Path models were used to test the main effect and were modeled separately for males and females.…

Describes an evaluation of an alcohol and prevention program in which children of alcoholics (N=278) used artwork to stimulate classroom discussions of the problems of parental alcohol abuse. Results indicate increased knowledge about the effects of alcohol and improved skills in coping with alcohol problems and help-seeking behavior. (RJM)

This article describes and provides examples of the three major training modalities currently in vogue. The strengths and weaknesses of each are examined and then integrated to build a recommended model for future training efforts. (Author)

Describes two recent studies sponsored by the National Institute on Drug Abuse which focused on the cost-effectiveness of prevention. Results showed that the alternatives program (Channel One) produced increased drug use at one site, while the affective education program reduced drug use and was judged cost-effective. (JAC)

Assessed relationship between behavioral intention to use drugs and self-reported drug use in 9,403 seventh- through twelfth-grade students in five types of schools in Pennsylvania. Subjects completed a questionnaire assessing a variety of behaviors. Across all drugs, and within all samples, intention to use drugs was consistently related to…

Evaluated the Communication and Parenting Skills (CAPS) substance abuse education program, which includes parental modeling and effective communication. Ten instructors each conducted two CAPS courses, one as an experimental course, the other as a control. Results indicated significant acquisition and utilization of constructive responses by…

Outlines a heightened level of training to support advanced roles for the alcohol and other drug (AOD) counselor. The functions differentiate AOD professionals--who have an advanced degree and extensive experience--from entry-level professionals. Provides a set of educational components that help counselors obtain competence in these functions.…

Data from 13,998 students revealed that high percentages of students drank often and that many of these students reported being drunk often. While most students indicated they would prefer not to drive home after drinking, approximately one-third of driving age students indicated they would drive under the influence of alcohol or would ride with…

Examined alcohol use among 7,799 adolescents. Found alcohol use highly correlated with composite effects of variables (behavioral intention; attitude toward school; school misconduct; time spent on sports, extracurricular activities, religion, and academics; grade average; gender; and grade level). Alcohol use was positively correlated with…

Examined relationships between negative social behaviors and social activity participation to self-reported drinking and driving behaviors of adolescents. Results from 6,868 adolescents showed negative social behaviors and social activity participation were critical precursors to drinking and driving problem among adolescents. (Author/NB)

Evaluated Pennsylvania Department of Education-sponsored training of members of core team Student Assistance Programs (SAPs). Compared student response averages from schools that had implemented core teams with those from matched schools without SAPs. Found that students in SAP schools were more likely to talk to friends about risks of smoking.…

Evaluated National Regional Center's (NRC) team training approach used to train school and community agency personnel in drug abuse prevention. NRC-trained teams appeared to have most positive impact at junior high level. Findings suggest it is too early to assess behavior among elementary students and too late developmentally to have effect at…

Examined reasons for not using tobacco, alcohol, and various other substances by students in relation to amount of self-reported substance use. Findings from 5,887 students in grades 6 through 12 revealed importance of information, self-concept, recreational and alternative activities, school policy, and adults as role models for use of various…