Week 6 Discussion: Prevention Programs for Target Populations

Description

Week 6 Discussion: Prevention Programs for Target Populations

Much of this course has focused on individuals who have addictions or are showing signs of becoming addicted. This week, you explore prevention strategies for an at-risk population. Some programs are focused on helping populations avoid trying a substance, and some are tailored to relapse prevention. How effective are these programs? The results are mixed. For some, these programs are helpful, but many individuals still struggle with addiction. Why might these programs not be effective? Experts in the addictions field cite different reasons. Many believe that some prevention programs do not address the risk to the population they are targeting. Therefore, addictions professionals typically consider these aspects of a population before creating a prevention program. For your Assignment this week, you will research the risks associated with the population of veterans of military service and examine the ramifications of these risks to their vulnerability to addiction.

To prepare for this Discussion:

Review the Learning Resources. Some of the Resources center on adolescents or other target populations. For this Discussion, focus on successful program features rather than target populations.
Consider a population of veterans of military service returning to their home countries. Research at least two articles on the psychological needs of returning veterans and two articles on the biopsychosocial model using credible online sources.
By Day 4

Post your response to the following:

Why might veterans of military service returning from combat be at risk for addiction? Use a biopsychosocial model to frame your responses. Include strategies for risk prevention.

By Day 6

Respond to at leas two of your colleagues.

Include a different risk factor
Present a different model that might explain a risk factor(s)
Provide a different perspective on one aspect of a colleague’s post
Expand on a colleague’s post by providing a new insight
Reference

Evans, R. I. (2002). Just-say-no campaign. San Francisco, CA: Healthline. Retrieved from the Healthline website: http://www.healthline.com/galecontent/just-say-no-campaign

Submission and Grading Information