Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2026

A Prediction Error-driven Retrieval Procedure for Destabilizing and Rewriting Maladaptive Reward Memories in Hazardous Drinkers
Published on: January 5, 2018
Immediate and short-term effects of the 5th grade version of the keepin' it REAL substance use prevention
Michael L Hecht1, Elvira Elek, David A Wagstaff
1The Pennsylvania State University, State College, Department of Communications Arts and Sciences, University Park, PA 16802, USA. mlh10@psu.edu
Abstract:
This study assessed the immediate and short-term outcomes of adapting a culturally-grounded middle school program, keepin' it REAL, for elementary school students. After curriculum adaptation, 10 schools were randomly assigned to the intervention in 5th grade with follow-up boosters in 6th grade; 13 schools were randomly assigned to the control condition, implementing the school's pre-existing substance use prevention programming. Students (n=1566) completed a questionnaire prior to curriculum implementation and follow-up questionnaires toward the end of 5th and 6th grade. The 5th grade kiR curriculum generally appeared no more effective than the control schools' programming in changing students' resistance or decision-making skills; substance use intentions, expectancies, or normative beliefs; or lifetime and recent substance use. Such findings have implications for the age appropriateness of school-based programs.
Related Concept Videos
Drug Abuse and Addiction: Pharmacological Phenomena
Substance Use Disorders Affecting Sleep
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...
Community Based Intervention
Foundations of Community Mental Health Programs
Central to the success of community-based interventions is the...
Drug Dependence
Stimulants
Cocaine can be administered via snorting, injection, or smoking. It primarily functions by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, resulting in a euphoric high characterized by an intense sensation of happiness and...
Timing and Consequences on Behavior
Humans, however, can respond to delayed reinforcers. We often make decisions between immediate small rewards and delayed larger rewards. This ability to delay gratification is a significant factor...
