This is another innovative program whose success was due to strong community participation. Students are educated about the ill effects of alcohol consumption both to themselves and their family. The psychological aspects of alcohol consumption as well as its etiology are elucidated to the participating students. This program is different from the ones discussed above in that it lays special focus on helping students improve their peer relations by intervening at appropriate stages. In addition,
“Group exercises were designed to facilitate the identification, acceptance, and expression of feelings. A related goal was that of improving the social network of participants. Specific skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, stress management and refusal skills were emphasized. In short, the intervention was designed to do what parents normally do: help children learn to live with themselves in their environments, establish good relationships, and make constructive decisions and follow them through.” (Bailey, et. al, 2004)
Cambridge and Somerville Program for Alcoholism Rehabilitation:
The Cambridge and Somerville Program for Alcoholism Rehabilitation is a program specifically aimed at children of Alcoholics. All student age groups are included in this program. Adolescents susceptible to behavioral problems and substance abuse are educated about remedies and precautionary measures. Similar to the SAP and STR programs discussed above, teachers are actively involved in the program. And so are the members of the community (Palfrey, 2005).
Children of Drug Abusers and Alcoholics
This program again has many features common with the programs discussed above. This three month programs focuses on children between 4 and 10 years of age. Group activities are central to the program which tries to incorporate elements of art and play in its therapeutic procedures. An evaluation of the program on the basis of the Child Behavior Checklist shows that it has been successful in improving participants’ “competence and behavior” (Palfrey, 2005).
Discussion:
The young adolescents who participated in the SMAAPs and SAPs demonstrated better understanding of the potential risks of alcohol addiction. They were also found to report social support and emotion based coping behavior. These programs were effective in reducing the stress these students were going through as a result of their own alcohol consumption or that of their parents. (Bailey, et. al, 2004)
Research conducted on STR program outcomes shows that it has been effective in intervening and mitigating alcohol related issues for the participating adolescents. The participants were found to exhibit more confidence during their social interactions as well as better self-esteem. This had translated into a broader circle of friends, healthy peer interaction and a positive regard for their community. Not surprisingly, the incidences of depression and anxiety disorders among the participating teenagers were lesser than the control group (Bailey, et. al, 2004).