Family-Based Prevention Programs

Prevention programs for adolescents and their families are designed to reduce youth problems and promote positive development by addressing assets and risk and protective factors at the family level. A growing body of research conducted over the past 30 years on the efficacy of family-based prevention models provides increasing support for the value of this approach. The literature on evidence-based family programs provides some insight into the common characteristics underlying effective, family-based prevention programs and can provide guidance to those interested in improving existing programs and designing new ones. Although prevention programs directed at families with adolescents can be an important tool for addressing youth issues, there remain a number of barriers that hinder their wider adoption. Effectively addressing these obstacles is necessary if such programs are to gain wider acceptance and ultimately make a significant difference in the lives of youth and their families.