Initiative Description: Meta analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of school-based prevention programming in reducing cannabis use among youth aged 12 to 19.

Study Results: Findings revealed that programs incorporating elements of several prevention models were significantly more effective than were those based on only a social influence model. Programs that were longer in duration (≥15 sessions) and facilitated by individuals other than teachers in an interactive manner also yielded stronger effects. The results also suggested that programs targeting high school students were more effective than were those aimed at middle-school students

Reference: Porrath-Waller, A.J., Beasley, E., Beirness, D.J. (2010). A meta-analytic review of school-based prevention for cannabis use. Health Education & Behavior, 37(5): 709-723

Level of Evidence: Very Good