Intervention strategies for the prevention of adolescent substance abuse

Abstract

Although substance abuse among adolescents is a complex problem, intervention models have been designed which address the extent and depth of the problem. Because most adolescents experiment with drugs, such interventions must be broad‐based and multi‐level and involve the teen, peers, parents, and the school. Efforts should be focused on the widely used drugs. The two most successful intervention strategies have been the “problem‐solving” and the “social competency building” approaches. Several model programs are reviewed. Community‐wide prevention programs are proposed as an emphasis for future efforts, particularly those that make use of the media.