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Workplace Drug Abuse Prevention Initiatives: A Review

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Abstract

Likely key elements of effective prevention strategies emerging from the literature (and from discussions with experts) are summarized. These include: (1) program content based on proven prevention theory and research; (2) comprehensive approaches that address multiple risk and protective factors, and generalize across settings; (3) material that is relevant during important transitions in an employee's life and career (4) sensitivity to the culture of the workplace and community; (5) sufficient dosage and follow-up; (6) use of interactive teaching techniques; (7) training for prevention program providers; and (8) evaluation to know that the intervention had the desired effect on behavior. Evaluation of workplace substance abuse prevention has been limited; the need for future research is discussed. The paper concludes with a discussion of how to increase interest in substance abuse prevention by employers.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Public Health, Cornell University Medical College, USA

    Linda Dusenbury (Clinical Associate Professor)

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  1. Linda Dusenbury
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Correspondence to Linda Dusenbury.

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Dusenbury, L. Workplace Drug Abuse Prevention Initiatives: A Review. The Journal of Primary Prevention 20, 145–156 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021442016197

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