The Training of Teachers for Drug Abuse Education Programs: Preliminary Considerations

Abstract

Recognizing that a variety of responses to the drug abuse problem has resulted, the authors turn their attention to the development of the wide range of educational programs for various population groups. A detailed description of drug programs implemented in the State of New Jersey is presented. The general outline includes the course content, format of workshops, treatment programs sociological considerations and the epidemiology of student drug use. Careful research data relative to the program are presented, analyzed and interpreted. Such factors as knowledge of personal risk associated with drug abuse, and of drug laws, changes in attitude and emphasis on drug topics by the participants in the workshop setting are discussed. Additionally, techniques for evaluating the effectiveness of the program are considered. The authors conclude that an intensive institute using the formats of lectures, discussion groups, and various assignments can result in important changes in the participant's level of knowledge, self-confidence and attitudes in changing his role in the school's drug abuse programs.