Related Experiment Videos
Can evidence-based prevention programs be sustained in community practice settings? The Early Risers' Advanced-Stage
Gerald J August1, Michael L Bloomquist, Susanne S Lee
1Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, 55454-1495, USA. augus001@umn.edu
Summary
The Early Risers "Skills for Success" program showed sustainability challenges in a community setting. Engaging families proved difficult, impacting program replication and outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Community Health Programs
- Program Sustainability
Background:
- The Early Risers "Skills for Success" program previously demonstrated effectiveness in preventing conduct problems.
- A prior trial showed successful implementation by a nonprofit agency with developer support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the institutional sustainability of the Early Risers program in a community setting.
- To determine if a community agency could replicate earlier positive findings with reduced developer involvement.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, control group design was used with an intent-to-intervene strategy.
- Children were assigned to either the Early Risers program or a no-intervention comparison group.
- Data on exposure, adherence, and quality of delivery were collected.
Main Results:
- Program attendance rates were significantly lower than in the initial trial.
- Only one positive outcome from the earlier study was replicated.
- Families with higher attendance benefited, indicating implementation quality was acceptable.
Conclusions:
- Community agency difficulties in family engagement were the primary reason for limited success.
- Organizational barriers like transportation and staff turnover impeded sustainability.
- Proactive planning for sustainability by both developers and providers is crucial.