The history of drug abuse prevention campaigns suggests limitations in producing measurable changes in behavior. In the past, there was concern over the possibility of such publicity actually encouraging interest in drug use, rather than discouraging such behavior. Although little or no scientifically sound empirical evidence has been found to support such a view, several social science textbooks still refer to this as something of which to be wary. Reviews of early research appear to indicate inadequate methods and a lack of rigor in theory testing. In recent years, however, research in communication and its uses in drug abuse prevention has become considerably more sophisticated, and communication is being used far more effectively. In this book, the editors bring together some of the most successful drug abuse prevention researchers in the country -- along with other experts in this field or in persuasive communication -- to address use and effects of both mass media and interpersonal strategies. This collection illustrates just how far the study of public influence through mass media has come, especially regarding such a vital, relevant issue as drug abuse prevention.

This wide-ranging handbook brings together experts in the sociology of drug abuse prevention. Providing a comprehensive overview of the accumulated knowledge on prevention theory, intervention design, and development and prevention research methodology, this work also promotes prevention science as an evolving field in the practice and policy of drug abuse prevention.

This popular text provides a comprehensive introduction to the study of persuasive messages and their effects. Concepts and methods from communication and social psychology are seamlessly integrated to give students a solid grasp of foundational issues in persuasion research, the core features of persuasive transactions, and major models of persuasive communication. Distinguished by its clear organization and wealth of concrete examples, this is an ideal text for advanced undergraduate- and graduate-level courses for students with a basic understanding of quantitative research methods.

"Having so many theories put together thoughtfully, proximally, in a single book will help the field come to grips with what the role is of theories as we go forward and address the individual actions, and societal and community influencers of individual action, that promote healthy behaviors." --Jim Marks, director, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention New and longstanding threats to public health, such as violence, drug misuse, HIV/AIDS, and homelessness are creating an ever greater demand for innovative theories that are responsive to the changes in the larger social environment. This important work is designed to fill the demand by assembling a careful selection of new and emerging health promotion theories into a single volume, written with an emphasis on practical application of theory to health promotion and health education programs.

Focuses on several factors that are necessary for substance abuse & addiction to occur, including an examination of the biological research regarding the phenomenon of addiction to a variety of substances. Describes individual risk & protection factors that contribute to the abuse, & addiction to alcohol & drugs. Looks at how risk & protection factors play out in subcultures & in major activity settings including the home, school, workplace & recreation settings. Addresses a range of legislative options for Congress. History of drug control policy in the U.S.

Outcome studies have shown that treatment does not work if administered too late. Preventing Childhood Disorders, Substance Abuse, and Delinquency presents the newest research on the effectiveness of prevention and early intervention programs with children, from birth to adolescence. The contributors to this volume examine the theory and practice of leading programs designed to prevent social and behavioral problems--including violence and substance abuse--in children and adolescents. The innovative programs analyzed here focus on social skills training for children with conduct disorders, anger coping group work for aggressive children, parent training programs, life skills training for substance abuse prevention, and programs for high-risk youth and rural populations. All designed to intervene before the onset of disorders or to deal effectively with problems when they first appear, many of the programs also emphasize strengthening family, school, and community involvement for successful risk reduction. Clinical psychologists and human services professionals who work with children and youths will find Preventing Childhood Disorders, Substance Abuse, and Delinquency illuminating. This book also will be of interest to policy makers who are looking for more effective and efficient interventions to child and adolescent problems.