It also capitalizes on the importance to adolescents of peer influence and mutual support. Some programs may be directed at COAs in a broad based community prevention program. Other programs target specific groups that always have a large component of COAs, such as abused or neglected children or youth with academic difficulties or gang affiliations. Prevention and intervention services should be automatic as part of a comprehensive social service program. Though there is little data existing on the effectiveness of Alateen as prevention, the advantages to adolescents of peer support and education about the nature of alcoholism, seem obvious.
Schools are logical places to reach COAs.
School curricula should always include information about alcohol and drugs and their impact on the family. Alert teachers can easily pick up on children s discomfort about alcohol or changes in interest or attendance during alcohol education. These children can be educated about addiction without feeling singled out. Addiction Counselors Counselors have their hands full these days and often do not have the time or opportunity to work with families of their patients. This does not mean they can t influence the course of events.