Blueprints
Model Programs Fact Sheets
The results of over a dozen studies
consistently show that the Life Skills Training (LST)
program dramatically reduces tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana
use. These studies further show that the program works
with a diverse range of adolescents, produces results
that are long-lasting, and is effective when taught
by teachers, peer leaders, or health professionals.
Program Targets:
LST is a primary intervention that targets all middle/junior
high school students (initial intervention in grades
6 or 7, depending on the school structure, with booster
sessions in the two subsequent years).
Program Content:
LST is a three-year intervention designed to prevent
or reduce gateway drug use (i.e., tobacco, alcohol,
and marijuana), primarily implemented in school classrooms
by school teachers. The program is delivered in 15 sessions
in year one, 10 sessions in year two, and 5 sessions
in year three. Sessions, which last an average of 45
minutes, can be delivered once a week or as an intensive
mini-course. The program consists of three major components
which teach students (1) general self-management skills,
(2) social skills, and (3) information and skills specifically
related to drug use. Skills are taught using training
techniques such as instruction, demonstration, feedback,
reinforcement, and practice.
Program Outcomes:
Using outcomes averaged across more than a dozen studies
conducted with LST, it has been found to:
- Cut tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana use 50% - 75%.
Long-term follow-up results observed six years following
the intervention show that LST:
- Cuts polydrug use up to 66%;
- Reduces pack-a-day smoking by 25%; and
- Decreases use of inhalants, narcotics, and hallucinogens.
Program Costs:
LST can be implemented at a cost of approximately $7
per student per year (curriculum materials averaged
over the three-year period). This does not include the
cost of training which is a minimum of $2,000 per day
for one or two days.
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