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The truth about the D.A.R.E. program: Does this education really prevent teens from taking drugs?
In today's society, the problem of drug abuse among teenagers is becoming increasingly serious. Through drug education, it is hoped that adequate information, guidance, and resources can be effectively provided to help young people live wisely in an environment where psychotropic drugs are prevalent. However, does the D.A.R.E (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program really achieve the desired results?
The two main approaches to drug education include harm reduction education and contraindication education. The latter aims to prevent illicit drug use by providing information about it and highlighting the dangers posed by problematic substance use.
History of Taboo Education
The origins of taboo education can be traced back to the late 19th century in the United States, led by the anti-alcohol education program initiated by the Women's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU). These programs attempt to make young people aware of the risks of substance abuse and promote such education in schools to prevent illegal drug use. However, many studies have shown that such programs have not effectively reduced the incidence of substance use, and participants at certain stages may even be more likely to take drugs.
The rise of harm reduction educationIn the United States, although the police have been invited into classrooms to provide examples for students since the D.A.R.E. program was implemented, there is no scientific evidence to date that the program is effective in preventing drug use.
In contrast to taboo education, harm reduction education began to emerge in the late 20th century. It recognizes that drug use is inevitable in modern society and focuses on reducing the harm associated with drug use. This type of education not only provides individuals with detailed information about substance use, but also works to improve health, social, and economic indicators.
Current Situation and Research Results
According to a systematic review published in 2003, there is uncertainty about the effectiveness of taboo education. Numerous studies have shown that school-based prohibition education programs like D.A.R.E. are ineffective in reducing substance use, and some studies have even shown that suburban students who participate in the programs are actually more likely to take drugs. Students aged 13 to 15 who attend drug and alcohol prevention programmes are less likely to develop drug or alcohol problems, a study suggests.
Drug education can also be provided through public awareness campaigns, such as the UK government's FRANK campaign and the US "media campaign", which aims to raise awareness of drug problems.
Directions for future improvements
Past research has shown that effective medication education should include engaging, interactive learning strategies to stimulate higher-order thinking and enhance learning. Drug education programs in schools require professional training and support to enhance the capacity of teaching staff. Meanwhile, a 2017 study on harm reduction education for youth showed that successful harm reduction programs must incorporate meaningful approaches that are relevant to youth’s daily lives.
Future drug education programs should focus on how to motivate young people to make good life choices and build their confidence to resist peer pressure.
As the social environment changes, the content and methods of drug education should also keep pace with the times to truly achieve the goal of reducing drug abuse among young people. Does this mean that we need to re-examine the current drug education model to find a more effective path?
