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Longitudinal substance initiation outcomes for a universal preventive intervention combining family and school
Richard L Spoth1, Cleve Redmond, Linda Trudeau
1Institute for Social and Behavioral Research, Iowa State University, Ames 50010, USA.
Summary
This study found that combining Life Skills Training (LST) with a family program significantly reduced substance initiation. LST alone also showed benefits, particularly for marijuana use, in rural schools.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Substance Abuse Prevention
- Adolescent Health
Background:
- Substance initiation among adolescents remains a significant public health concern.
- Competency-based interventions delivered in schools and families show promise for prevention.
- Evaluating combined versus standalone interventions is crucial for optimizing prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the substance initiation effects of a combined family and school-based competency-training intervention.
- To compare the efficacy of a combined intervention (Life Skills Training and Strengthening Families Program) against Life Skills Training alone and a control condition.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-six rural schools were randomized into three groups: combined intervention, Life Skills Training (LST) only, or a control.
- Outcomes were assessed one year post-intervention using a substance initiation index (SII) and individual substance rates (alcohol, cigarettes, marijuana).
Main Results:
- Both the combined intervention and LST-only interventions demonstrated significant effects on the substance initiation index (SII) and marijuana initiation.
- The combined intervention showed a 30.0% relative reduction in alcohol initiation, while LST-only resulted in a 4.1% reduction.
Conclusions:
- Combined family and school-based interventions are effective in reducing adolescent substance initiation.
- Life Skills Training (LST) alone is also effective, particularly in preventing marijuana use.
- These findings support the integration of comprehensive, multi-component prevention programs in school settings.