Research to Practice: Trends in the Field
The following Research to Practice publications are currently available:
Survey Data Sources for Substance Abuse Prevention: A Review and Summary
New! Volume 1, Issue 4, 2011
Understanding data has become a critical part of operating and funding social programs. Data is an important gauge for showing change in social conditions, and data indicators measure quality of life and wellness for individuals, their families, and communities. The substance abuse prevention field is more reliant on data now than ever before. The field continues to expand the number of evidence-based interventions offered (as listed on the National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices-NREPP). And, there is growth laterally, as the field continues to define the mutual benefits that transfer to other social concerns; for example, demonstrating how reducing substance abuse contributes to improved health and wellness, increased academic/professional gains, and the stemming of crime and violence. All these analyses and justifications are made through data.
The Ups and Downs of Comparing Teen Substance Abuse Data
New! Volume 1, Issue 3, 2011
Prevention providers often rely on surveys and studies to determine both trends in the field and the effectiveness of prevention efforts. However, even within one particular aspect of prevention, surveys can be interpreted quite differently. This Research to Practice paper will look at one focus of prevention efforts - teen substance abuse - and show how surveys might seem to highlight one issue, while downplaying another. Much as the buyer should beware in consumer spending, the prevention provider should be wary of survey highlights. As much as possible, it is best to check actual numbers, and consult several surveys, to get the best picture when tracking trends.
Digital Storytelling and Participatory Evaluation Tip Sheet
Volume 1, Issue 2, 2010
Think teen drinking is just a "right" of passage? THINK AGAIN. New research shows that alcohol affects a teenager's developing brain differently than adults. Memory, learning and impulse control can be seriously impaired and the risk of addiction goes up significantly.
Performance Enhancement in the Academic World
Volume 1, Issue 1, 2010
The purpose of this publication is to assist prevention professionals in developing policy strategies to address the problems associated with high-risk and underage drinking in their communities. This paper provides an overview of policy strategies, current research on their effectiveness, and their application in the community as part of an environmental prevention systems approach.
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