From national, statewide and local surveys there is a growing body of data available to communities interested in understanding and assessing youth risk behavior. Unfortunately, these data are frequently compiled in lengthy reports which are difficult for any one without a research background to understand or utilize. As a result the data are usually only used in funding proposals and reports or reported to the larger community through a press release. Using the experience of the Cambridge Prevention Coalition in making the results of biannual Middle Grades and High School Health Surveys available to the community, this presentation focuses on forums and methods that can be used to make youth risk behavior data accessible to community members (including youth, educators, parents, youth workers, health care providers and policy makers) and to engage them in conversation about the data and its meaning for them. It will also include information on how to create data tables and charts that are easy to understand. Finally, the presentation will discuss how to use these forums and methods to support the use of these data in the shaping of policy and programs effecting youth.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to: 1. Identify three methods for successfully disseminating youth risk behavior data to the public 2. Understand how to create meaningful charts of youth risk behavior data that can be easily understood by others, including youth, parents, educators, health care providers and policy makers 3. Understand how to present data to encourage its use in program and policy development
Keywords: Adolescent Health, Community Involvement
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Cambridge Prevention Coalition, Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge Public Schools
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employee of Cambridge Prevention Coalition