Our research indicates that universal community programs need to be comprehensive with well- coordinated components for the individual, the family, the school,the media, and community organizations. In this comprehensive program, a classroom curriculum teaches students how to resist influences to use drugs. In addition, schools, parents, mass media, and community organizations work together to promote consistent antidrug messages, attitudes, and policies in the community. Although universal drug abuse prevention programs can work with general populations, they may not meet the special needs of groups within those larger populations who are particularly at risk of drug abuse. Such programs are tailored to reduce the identified risk factors and strengthen appropriate protective factors in these individuals' lives.
Research shows that children of substance abusers make up one such at-risk group.
Armed with this knowledge, NIDA-supported researchers at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City have developed a selective prevention program for these children and their parents. The family-focused program works to improve interactions within families. As a result, the program has reduced family conflicts, youth problem behaviors such as aggression and delinquency, and substance abuse. Research shows that youths with these characteristics are at high risk of continued drug abuse. Successful indicated programs address these youths' specific problems, enhance protective factors, and reduce their substance use.