POLICY OF PREVENTIVE WORK WITH JUVENILE DRUG USERS IN THE USA

Abstract

This article deals with the problem of preventive work with young drug users. This is one of the most important problems in the world, including the USA. Substance misuse can put individual users and others among them at risk of harm. Early substance misuse and substance use disorders are associated with a variety of negative results, including deteriorating relationships, poor school performance, loss of employment, diminished mental health and increases in sickness and death. It is therefore critical to prevent the full spectrum of substance misuse problems in addition to treating those with substance use disorders. The aim of the study is to reveal the peculiarities of preventive work with young drug users in USA. Theoretical research methods have been used in this study: analysis of scientific sources, systematisation and generalisation of available data; defining of the essence of basic concepts; identification of the current state of the problem. The results of investigation give possibility to state that preventing or reducing early substance use initiation, substance misuse and the harms related to misuse requires the implementation of the effective programs and policies that address substance misuse across the lifespan. The effective prevention programs exist in the USA, and if implemented well, they can markedly reduce substance misuse and related threats to the health of population. There are three main categories of prevention interventions: universal, selected and indicated. Universal interventions are aimed at all members of a given population; selective interventions are aimed at a subgroup determined to be at high risk for substance; indicated interventions are targeted to individuals who are already using substance but have not developed a substance use disorder. It is recommended to provide a mix of universal, selective and indicated preventive intervention. Different programs are used for different categories of population. The program «Family Partnership» is focused on children younger than age 5. «The Good Behavior Game» and «Classroom-Centered Intervention» is an universal elementary school-based prevention program. For adolescents aged 10 to 18 programs «Life Skills Training» and «Towards No Drug Abuse» are used. There are also family-based programs («Strengthening Family», «For Parents and Youth»), program for College Students («Brief Alcohol Screening»), Internet-based program («I hear what you are saying») and many others. drug; juvenile; youth; preventive work; rehabilitation; programs of prevention; USA.