Science-based programs are approaches that have been developed and evaluated using scientific processes. These programs are grounded in a clear theoretical foundation and have been carefully implemented and evaluated. The evaluation findings have been subjected to critical review by other researchers and the program has been replicated in a variety of settings. Programs and approaches that are scientifically-defensible have produced desired results in a number of different settings. Some prevention programs focus on the entire community, while others target those at high risk for developing a substance use problem.
Some program evaluations are primarily quantitative and describe program outcomes statistically.
Others are primarily qualitative and describe program process and outcomes in rich detail, while other evaluations mix both strategies. Some research projects measure change in attitudes and behavior at a specific point in time, while others study one group of participants over a long period of time. Regardless of these differences in program focus, research design, or evaluation methodology, it is important that all prevention efforts reflect the scientific process and be designed and implemented in ways that are likely to be effective. This emphasis on science does not detract from the art of implementing prevention programs. Rather, it focuses the art of prevention toward strategies that work best.