The purpose of this study was to systematically analyze published research evaluating prevention programs to determine the extent to which iatrogenic effects occur, and under what circumstances. Understanding prevention program risks and the contextual factors associated with negative program outcomes is critical to assisting in the development of public policy aimed at avoiding future prevention-related harm, while maximizing prevention success. This information, along with what we already know about what prevention strategies are most efficacious in modifying substance abuse behavior, holds important implications for understanding both sides of the prevention coin. A search of electronic bibliographic data bases in education, psychology, medicine, allied health and addictions was conducted spanning the years from 1980 to the present. Reports were searched which discussed alcohol, tobacco or drug prevention and negative, iatrogenic or harmful effects. All research papers were examined by hand to determine if they met five inclusion criteria, and research and review papers were examined for relevant citations. Preliminary results suggest that iatrogenic effects do result from a small portion of prevention programs, including increases in substance use consumption and problems. In addition, these harmful effects appear to be associated with factors such as the type of drug targeted for prevention. Recommendations for reducing the probability of harm from prevention programs will be discussed.
Learning Objectives: 1)Describe prevention program risks that are associated with negative program outcomes. 2)Articulate the research methods used in the study. 3)Summarize the main findings and conclusions of the study. 4)Assess the implications of the findings for future health education research and practice.
Keywords: Drug Use, Prevention
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.