Programs aimed at reducing underage alcohol and drug use typically focus on young people themselves. But positive parenting and strong relationships between parents and youth are more effective at steering teens away from risky behaviors, research shows.
“Many prevention programs focus on youth only, and most have small effects,” said Karen Bogenschneider, University of Wisconsin-Extension family policy specialist and professor of human ecology at UW-Madison. “Programs that change family dynamics proved nine times more effective than approaches that focus on individual youth.”
According to Donna Doll-Yogerst, UW-Extension family living agent, one effort that has shown positive results in Oconto County is the Strengthening Families Program 10 to 14. UW-Extension trains local family professionals to conduct the program.
“Youth who participated were less likely to use alcohol and other drugs, were less aggressive, had fewer behavior problems and were more able to resist peer pressure,” Doll-Yogerst said. “Parents who took part were more affectionate with their children and set more appropriate limits.”
What’s more, a cost benefits analysis shows that for every $1 invested in the program, nearly $10 is saved in future costs such as drug treatment, lost future earnings and time in the juvenile justice system, she said.
“It’s hard to overstate the important role that families play in raising young people who will be able to contribute to a strong society and a sound economy,” Bogenschneider said.
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