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Comprehensive evaluation of a model alcohol education curriculum
R H Hopkins1, A L Mauss, K A Kearney
1Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman 99164-4020.
Journal of Studies on Alcohol
|January 1, 1988
Summary
This alcohol education program for youth showed modest effects on knowledge and attitudes but failed to reduce alcohol, cigarette, or drug use. The curriculum was ultimately ineffective in achieving its stated goals.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Adolescent Health
- Substance Abuse Prevention
Background:
- Youth alcohol use is a significant public health concern.
- Effective prevention programs are crucial for adolescent well-being.
- Existing programs require rigorous evaluation to determine efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a representative alcohol education program for youth.
- To assess the program's impact on knowledge, self-esteem, attitudes, and decision-making skills.
- To determine the program's effectiveness in reducing alcohol, cigarette, and other drug use.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive evaluation of a school-based alcohol education curriculum.
- Implementation fidelity was assessed.
- Short-term, cumulative, and long-term effects on mediating variables and substance use were measured.
Main Results:
- The curriculum was implemented largely as intended.
- Effects on knowledge, self-esteem, and attitudes were modest and inconsistent.
- No significant evidence of reduced alcohol, cigarette, or drug use was found.
Conclusions:
- The evaluated alcohol education program was ineffective in achieving its primary objectives.
- The program did not demonstrate sustained effects on adolescent substance use.
- Further research is needed to develop and validate effective youth substance abuse prevention strategies.