Friends in Focus: Developing a Peer-to-Peer Intervention for Adolescents.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Adolescent Psychology
• Substance Use Prevention

Background:

• Adolescent substance use is more prevalent than in adults.
• Peer influence is a significant factor in adolescent behavior, particularly between ages 14-17.
• Existing interventions needed adaptation for this age group.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and develop a peer-to-peer intervention for adolescents aged 14-17.
• To leverage peer influence positively to address substance use.
• To establish a foundation for a future effectiveness study.

Main Methods:

• Grounded in prevention science and utilizing open-source, evidence-based interventions.
• Developed a six-session program ('Friends in Focus') delivered by trained young peer trainers.
• Incorporated feedback from a global review group (scientists, practitioners, youth) and field prototyping.

Main Results:

• The intervention design process benefited from diverse expert and youth input.
• Field prototyping provided crucial data for refining intervention components.
• Preparatory steps were established for a future robust effectiveness study.

Conclusions:

• A collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach is vital for developing effective adolescent interventions.
• Field testing and iterative refinement are essential for optimizing intervention components.
• The 'Friends in Focus' intervention is poised for a future effectiveness study based on its development process.