标题：Effect of using only the Educational Curriculum of a Comprehensive Substance abuse Prevention Program on Perception of harm in US Elementary Students
摘要：Students in one rural, Northeast Missouri, USA school district abused alcohol, marijuana, andprescription drugs at levels higher than the state average. Youth who perceive a low risk ofharm from substances are more likely to use those substances. Because age of first use isgenerally 10-14 years old, a drug prevention intervention focused on these specific substancesfor elementary school students was conducted. However, due to lack of resources, only theeducational curriculum component of a comprehensive intervention was implemented. Beforethe start and at the finish of the curriculum delivered as one lesson each week for eight weeks,participants completed the perception of harm reduction survey that accompanied theprogram. An increase in percentage of program participants pre-post who reported moderateto great perceived risk of harm for smoking marijuana was noted, however; the increase wasnot significant. This study reinforces the importance of environmental and social support forany school-wide health behavior change. It is recommended that elementary schools interestedin substance abuse prevention interventions, but do not have the resources or administrativesupport to implement a comprehensive initiative, wait until they can acquire all components ofan evidence-based program before attempting a change.
