| SFP
10-14 has been scientifically evaluated in a randomized, controlled
test with families of sixth graders (at pretest) through Project
Family at the Institute for Social Behavioral Research at Iowa
State University. This large-scale, experimental design trial
involved random assignment of 33 Iowa public schools. Outcome
evaluations entailed the use of multi-informant, multi-method
measurement procedures at pretest, posttest, and follow-up data
collections.
Prior to the 1990s most groups across the US selected prevention programs based on popular belief or practitioner recommendations. Today most funding groups provide money for evidence-based programs. "Evidence-based" refers to scientifically tested programs such as the SFP 10-14. Programs that are evidence-based meet rigid criteria to achieve the scientifically tested label. They were tested as part of a research study, which demonstrated that over time, youth who participated in the programs had better outcomes than those who did not.
What is the definition of "evidence-based"?
- The Society of Prevention Science has established
standards of evidence that have been used to establish lists
of model programs by government agencies.
- Focus is on the quality of the research used
to evaluate programs.
In General, Evidence-based Programs:
- Are based on a clearly articulated and empirically-supported
theory
- Have a detailed description of the intervention
and measurement design--what outcomes were produced in what
populations with what intervention
- Have measurable outcomes that have been assessed
with psychometrically strong measures, including long-term follow-ups,
where indicated
- Have been tested in a scientifically-sound
way with comparison conditions, optimally through randomized
controlled studies
Advantages of Evidence-based Programs:
- Positive outcomes and economic benefits more
likely for youth and families
- Resources will not be used for ineffective
programs--better accountability
- Funding increasingly available primarily for
evidence-based programs
- Materials, training, and technical assistance
are available
The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency
Prevention
- From
the Administrator
- Families are important sources of support
and guidance for children. Because the welfare of children is
often tied to the strength of their families, OJJDP is committed
to helping parents help their children. This Bulletin, one in
OJJDP's Family Strengthening Series, features the Strengthening
Families Program: For Parents and Youth 10-14, a program designed
to build stronger families and, in the process, reduce juvenile
substance abuse and other delinquent acts. The Bulletin provides
a history of the original Strengthening Families Program, from
which today's program was developed. The Bulletin details the
specific risk and protective factors that are targeted in each
of the program's sessions and summarizes the content, mechanics,
and implementation of the program. It also describes the findings
of the program's evaluation and its replication. The Strengthening
Families Program: For Parents and Youth 10-14 has proven effective
in reducing adolescent substance abuse and other problem behaviors
and in improving parenting skills and enhancing child-parent
relations. This Bulletin serves as an important resource for
educators, policymakers, researchers, and community organizations
in their efforts to improve the outlook for children and families.
John J. Wilson
- Acting OJJDP Administrator
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