Implementing and evaluating the German adaptation of the "Strengthening Families Program 10 - 14"- a...

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Public Health
• Family Studies

Background:

• Early substance use in youth increases the risk for substance use disorders (SUD).
• Developmentally induced vulnerabilities heighten the risk for chronic substance use trajectories in adolescents.
• Preventive measures targeting children, adolescents, and families are crucial for mitigating SUD risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test the effectiveness of the German adaptation of the Strengthening Families Program for Parents and Youth 10-14 (SFP 10-14).
• To evaluate the program's impact on substance use initiation, family functioning, and psychosocial adjustment in 10-14 year olds.
• To contribute to the evidence base for family-based preventive interventions in diverse cultural settings.

Main Methods:

• A multicentre randomized controlled trial involving 288 children and parents across four German cities.
• The "Familien Stärken" program (German SFP 10-14) consists of seven core sessions and four booster sessions.
• Data collection occurred at baseline, post-intervention, and at 6 and 18 months, with a control group receiving a minimal parenting intervention.

Main Results:

• The study anticipates replicating positive outcomes observed in the US SFP 10-14 program.
• Expected favorable effects include reduced substance use initiation, improved family functioning, and better individual psychosocial adjustment.
• The trial aims to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the adapted program.

Conclusions:

• The trial will add to the literature on family-based preventive interventions for youth substance use.
• Findings will inform European efforts to strengthen families against the adverse effects of adolescent substance abuse.
• Results will enhance understanding of adapting evidence-based interventions for different cultural contexts and delivery settings.